Jaipur: A month-long blood donation campaign began across Rajasthan with Bundi resident Rajesh Khoiwal (46) donating blood for the 80th time, marking a major milestone in a three-decade commitment to the cause.Khoiwal first donated blood in 1994 and has continued to donate two to three times a year. His contribution on the opening day of the campaign drew appreciation from health officials, who said regular voluntary donors play a crucial role in maintaining blood availability for patients.In Jaipur, Arvind Kumar donated blood for the 35th time at a camp organised under the Viksit Bharat-Jan Seva Abhiyan at govt-run Jaipuria Hospital.Principal secretary, health and medical education, Gayatri Rathore inspected the camp on Thursday, interacted with donors and presented certificates to participants.Rathore said voluntary blood donation was an act of social responsibility and compassion, adding that blood is frequently required in accidents, childbirth, serious illnesses, surgeries and medical emergencies. She urged healthy and eligible citizens to donate blood regularly.The health department collected more than 5,000 units of blood on the first day of the drive. Officials said the campaign has been expanded to address rising demand and shortages reported by blood banks.Linked to the National Voluntary Blood Donation Day Fortnight from Sept 17 to Oct 2, the campaign will focus on increasing youth participation through National Cadet Corps units, higher education institutions, MY Bharat volunteers, youth organisations and other youth-led groups.
