Governor of Nagaland, Nand Kishore Yadav on Friday called upon youth, educational institutions, civil society organisations and citizens to come forward and become regular voluntary blood donors, stating that every unit of blood donated is a gift of hope, compassion and life.

The Governor was speaking at the early observance of World Blood Donor Day 2026, organized by the Kohima District Planning & Development Board in collaboration with the Voluntary Blood Donors Association Nagaland (VBDAN) at the Capital Convention Centre, Nagaland Civil Secretariat, Kohima on June 12 on the theme, “One Drop of Humanity: Give Blood, Save Lives.”

Addressing the gathering as the guest of honour, Yadav said the theme serves as a reminder that a simple act of donating blood can make the difference between life and death for someone in need. He noted that the global initiative emphasizes the importance of building a reliable and sustainable blood supply through regular, voluntary and unpaid blood donations rather than relying solely on emergency collections.

Expressing appreciation for the growing voluntary blood donation movement in Nagaland, the Governor said voluntary donors are the foundation of a safe and sustainable blood supply system that meets the needs of patients requiring transfusions. He remarked that their selfless service deserves the deepest appreciation and continued support.

Sharing his personal experience, Yadav said he had donated blood 36 times over the years, often on his birthdays along with fellow party members, and had also pledged to donate his eyes. He urged all citizens to embrace the spirit of service and work together to build a healthier, more caring and humane society.

MLA & Chairman DPDB Kohima, Kevipodi Sophie, described voluntary blood donation as a reflection of the values of compassion, selflessness and solidarity. He said blood donation transcends tribe, religion and social status, reminding people of their shared humanity.

He also called upon students, youth organizations, churches and community groups to become ambassadors of voluntary blood donation and help build a culture of regular blood donation.

Earlier, Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B Henok Buchem, in his welcome address, said the programme was organized to honour the selfless individuals whose voluntary blood donations have saved countless lives and brought hope to those in need. He said their generosity and commitment to humanity continue to inspire society.

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Delivering the significance of World Blood Donor Day, Director, Nagaland State Blood Transfusion Council, Dr Margaret Yhome, highlighted the importance of regular, voluntary and unpaid blood donation in ensuring a safe and sustainable blood supply. She said the observance seeks to raise awareness about the need for safe blood and blood products while recognizing the invaluable contribution of voluntary blood donors.

During the programme, Chairman, VBDAN, Ainato Yeptho, encouraged citizens to donate blood regularly and highlighted the association’s efforts since its inception in 2011. The programme also witnessed the felicitation of VBDAN patrons, namely Governor Nand Kishore Yadav, MLA Dr Tseilhoutuo Rhutso, Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B Henok Buchem, Joint Secretary, Art & Culture, Atosheli Zhimomi, and President, NCSU, Pele Khezhie, in recognition of their support towards strengthening the blood donation movement in the state. Partners felicitated on the occasion included Imprint, Vertex Construction, Imagi Nation, Ete Coffee, NK Square and 8 & 8 Restaurant.

The programme was chaired by District Planning Officer, Kohima, Lezo L Tsukru, while the invocation prayer was offered by Secretary, Social Concerns, NBCC, Dr Villo Naleo. Vote of thanks was proposed by President, VBDAN, Burakum Ao. A voluntary blood donation drive was conducted after the programme.