World Blood Donor Day was observed at the Panchayat Union Middle School in Keelakottai, located in the Kalaiyarkovil Union of Sivagangai District.
The event was presided over by Headmistress Deivaanai, while teacher Ganesan delivered the welcome address.
Speaking on the occasion, Arokiasamy, Vice President of the Indian Red Cross Society, explained the significance of celebrating the birthday of Karl Landsteiner as World Blood Donor Day. He highlighted Landsteiner’s pioneering research, which led to the discovery of the ABO blood group system after identifying differences when blood from different individuals was mixed. His work established that blood transfusions could be safely performed between people with compatible blood groups. Landsteiner’s discoveries paved the way for the first successful blood transfusion at New York’s Mount Sinai Hospital in 1907. In recognition of his contributions, he and Alexander Wiener were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1930.
Arokiasamy also noted that the official theme for World Blood Donor Day 2026 is “A Drop of Humanity: Donate Blood, Save Lives.” He emphasized the campaign’s key objectives:
- Promoting voluntary blood donation.
- Encouraging people to donate blood regularly without compensation.
- Celebrating blood donation as an expression of solidarity and social responsibility.
- Highlighting the urgent need for safe and adequate blood supplies.
He praised volunteers who donate blood selflessly to help people they may never meet.
Students were educated about the importance, benefits, and life-saving impact of blood donation through awareness sessions and slogans such as:
“Donate Blood, Save Lives.”
“Give Blood, Give Hope.”
“Blood keeps the heart beating; compassion in that heart helps another heart beat too.”
“Let us understand, help others, and uphold humanity.”
The vote of thanks was delivered by English Graduate Teacher Geetha. Teachers Meenakshi, Vasugi, and Computer Instructor Vidya also participated in the event.