One Nation, 1.4 Billion People, Yet Too Few Donors—India Misses the Mark on Voluntary Donation

Fewer than 1% of Indians donate blood annually, well short of the required 14.6 million units each year to meet the nation's healthcare demands.

 

According to recent reports, the shortage continues to challenge India's health system, especially in emergencies, surgeries, and procedures like chemotherapy. Experts cite that even 1% population contribution would be enough to bridge the gap but for lack of awareness, access, and the prevailing myths.

 

Each donation can save up to three lives, as blood can be separated into red cells, plasma, and platelets. Shortages are still acute in the majority of regions—particularly rural and underprivileged pockets of population. In Bihar and Jharkhand states, there is extremely low blood bank infrastructure, with less than two blood banks in a population of 10 lakh, much below the national average.

 

Health campaigners are calling for national campaigns of awareness, improved facilities for donations, and rewards to encourage regular voluntary giving. Painless and underutilized cord blood donation is also being presented as a life-saving treatment for over 80 conditions.

 

Key Facts:

Sources: Healthcare Radius, FACTLY, Inshorts