Chandigarh- “Today is a moment of unity, and I encourage everyone to donate blood, demonstrating our strength as a nation in solidarity with the families of the Pahalgam victims,” said Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, who further called upon the resident doctors to participate in large numbers in this noble cause.
In a powerful response to the devastating attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, which tragically took the lives of 27 innocent individuals and left many others seriously injured, the Resident Doctors’ Association (ARD) of PGIMER has organised a two-day blood donation camp at PGIMER’s Blood Bank.
Inaugurating the camp as the Chief Guest, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER said, In his touching address, Vivek Lal emphasised, “This initiative is much more than just a call for donations; it is a symbol of our solidarity, compassion and humanity towards people in distress.
When residents approached me after this tragedy, I suggested a blood donation camp in memory of those who died in Pahalgam. Today is a moment of unity, and I urge everyone to donate blood to demonstrate our strength as a nation standing with the bereaved families.”
As an example, Prof. Lal himself donated blood and called upon the residents, “I feel grateful to have donated blood today. For over 30 years, I have dedicated myself to this cause. When an opportunity to donate comes, we must take advantage of it. Blood and organ donation are truly noble acts. Here at PGIMER, we feel proud to lead these efforts, and I hope my donation will inspire others to do the same.”
Dr Vishnu Jinja, Chairman, ARD 2025, highlighted the profound significance of this initiative and said, “This tragic incident has left a deep emotional scar on our community, and it is our moral obligation to help those affected. By donating blood, we not only honour the memories of the victims, but also instill hope and healing for their families.”
The camp was attended by Prof R K Ratho, Dean (Academics), Prof Vipin Kaushal, Medical Superintendent, Prof Rati Ram Sharma, Head, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Prof Sandeep Bansal, Department of Otolaryngology, Dr Suchet Sachdev, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Dr Gaganin Sandhu, Nodal Officer, SOTTO Punjab, Residents, Nursing Officers and other staff of PGIMER. Prof Vipin Kaushal who himself contributed by donating blood said, “Every drop of blood is important. Gathering here today is a testimony to our unwavering commitment to serving humanity. I feel proud to contribute and encourage others to do the same.”
Urging everyone to participate, Prof. Rati Ram Sharma said, “As the camp will continue tomorrow, we invite everyone to join us in this important endeavour. Through our combined efforts, we can let the victims and their families know that they are not alone in this difficult time.”
Dr. Puneet Kuntal, Organizing Secretary of the event said, “The aim of this camp is to promote community participation in blood donation, rekindle the morale of the affected families and instill a new sense of hope after this disaster.”
Dr. Gaganeen Sandhu also donated blood and said, “This blood donation camp exemplifies what it means to stand together and be part of a compassionate community in times of crisis.”
PGIMER appreciates all the donors, volunteers and attendees for their remarkable generosity and indomitable spirit of solidarity, which turned this camp into a resounding message of hope and community resilience.
The camp will continue tomorrow as well, providing individuals with yet another opportunity to contribute to this noble cause.