Maharashtra Launches 15-Day Blood Donation Campaign From September 17 To Tackle Shortages

Mumbai, September 17, 2026: Maharashtra is set to commence a 15-day statewide blood donation campaign from September 17 to October 2, starting on Gandhi Jayanti. The State Blood Transfusion Council (SBTC) has ordered government health facilities to conduct donation camps and awareness programs during the initiative, which runs under the theme “One Drop of Humanity.

Give Blood. Save Lives.” The campaign aims to address blood shortages and encourages voluntary donations to ensure sufficient supplies for future months. The SBTC has requested Deputy Directors of Health Services, civil surgeons, and deans of government medical colleges and hospitals to organize camps and promote the campaign through various media channels.

However, past experiences indicate challenges in mobilizing donors. In 2025, nearly 43 blood donation camps in Mumbai reported zero donations, with several mega camps and arrangements reported no participation. Concerns have been raised about donor turnout, particularly during the Ganpati festival when many donors and staff are away.

Health activist Chetan Kothari and former Mumbai mayor Kishori Pednekar have called for enhanced efforts, including city-wide drives and mobilization by elected representatives and NGOs to reach the goal.