NITI Aayog Member (Health) Dr M. Srinivas on Thursday, 1 October 2026 revealed that nearly 75 per cent of blood collection in India is sourced through voluntary donations, while calling for significantly greater public participation to strengthen the country's blood donation ecosystem and close the persistent gap between demand and supply.

Key Remarks at National Voluntary Blood Donation Day

Dr Srinivas was speaking at the National Voluntary Blood Donation Day (NVBDD) 2026 programme held at the Swarn Jayanti Auditorium of Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi. The event was organised by the Blood Transfusion Services Division of the Directorate General of Health Services under the Union Health Ministry, in collaboration with Lady Hardinge Medical College and its associated hospitals.

This year's official theme was 'One Drop of Humanity. Give Blood. Save Lives.' The programme included the inauguration of a voluntary blood donation camp, administration of a public pledge, addresses by dignitaries, and felicitation of states, organisations and stakeholders for their contributions.

The Demand-Supply Gap

While the 75 per cent voluntary donation share marks notable progress, Dr Srinivas underscored that sustained efforts remain essential to address existing shortages. He called on governments, healthcare professionals, non-governmental organisations, voluntary groups and youth organisations to collaborate in expanding voluntary blood donation drives across the country. Notably, the remaining gap is filled through replacement and paid donations, which health experts have long flagged as carrying higher safety risks.

Dr Srinivas emphasised the importance of rational and optimal utilisation of blood and blood components, urging healthcare institutions to avoid wastage alongside driving collection. He also highlighted the need to take awareness campaigns to the grassroots level, ensuring that communities in smaller towns and rural areas are reached.

Nutrition and Anaemia on the Agenda

In a broader public health framing, Dr Srinivas stressed that awareness initiatives should extend beyond the act of donation itself. He specifically called for renewed focus on nutrition and anaemia, particularly among women and adolescent girls — two demographic groups disproportionately affected by blood-related health deficiencies in India. Addressing anaemia, he argued, is integral to building a larger and healthier pool of eligible donors over time.

Recognising Volunteers and Organisations

Administering the voluntary blood donation pledge at the event, Dr Srinivas encouraged citizens to donate blood regularly and to motivate others in their communities to participate. He acknowledged the contributions of blood donation organisations and volunteers, noting that their work has been vital in supporting healthcare services and saving lives at scale across India.

With NVBDD 2026 serving as an annual inflection point for national awareness, health officials are expected to intensify outreach ahead of high-demand periods such as the winter months, when donation rates traditionally dip.