Tribune News Network
Doha
The Aligarh Muslim University Alumni Association Qatar (AMUAAQ) organised a blood-donation camp at the Qatar National Blood Donation Centre on August 15 to mark India’s 78th Independence Day.
The event, which aimed to promote the spirit of sacrifice and raise awareness of the importance of blood donation, was conducted in collaboration with the Qatar National Blood Donation Centre. It was supported by Integral Alumni Lucknow and Area 19 Clubs, including AMUAQ Toastmasters and Royal Toastmasters.
India’s Ambassador to Qatar HE Vipul graced the event as the chief guest. In his remarks, he praised the initiative and emphasised the importance of such noble gestures towards humanity. He encouraged the donors and the organisers to continue their commendable work, highlighting the vital role of blood donation in saving lives.
During the event, a special discussion was held on the importance and benefits of blood donation. Dr Nadeem Jilani, president of the AMUAAQ and Area 19 Toastmaster director, outlined various health benefits for regular blood donors, including a reduced risk of heart diseases, hypertension and cancer. He emphasised that blood donation is a priceless gift from one human being to another, underscoring its significance.
Jawed Ahmad, chairman of AMUAAQ, applauded the members, donors and supporting organisations for their service to humanity. He noted that this year’s theme, ‘20 years of celebrating giving: thank you blood donors!’ aims to honour blood donors and recognise their life-saving contributions over the years. Ahmad ended his discussion with a slogan in Hindi, ‘Ek Qadam Raktdaan, Aapke Manvta kee Hai Pehchan’, which translates to ‘One step in blood donation, your humanity is recognised’. He also expressed his gratitude to the Qatar National Blood Donation Centre for their support in making the blood donation drive possible on such a special occasion.
Dr Sufia highlighted the global importance of safe blood and blood products for transfusion, and the critical contribution of voluntary, unpaid blood donors to national health systems. Dr Ashna Nusrat, vice president of AMUAAQ, spoke about World Blood Donor Day and emphasized the need for blood donation, sharing the inspiring story of James Harrison, known as the ‘Man with the Golden Arm’, who donated blood that saved approximately 2 million babies. Dr Bala further emphasised the health benefits of donating blood and the increased urgency to support those suffering from chronic diseases and complications.
The programme was coordinated by Farrukh Ali Farooqi and Mamnoon Ahmed Bangash, with support from Dr Mohammed Nayeem, Faisal Abdullah, Syed Shahabuddin, Imamuddin Ahmad, Sanjeev Kumar Sharma and Irfan Ahmad. The registration desk was headed by Saima Rafat, with assistance from Ahmed, Jilani, Amaan, Alhena and Almas.
The event was also graced by several community leaders and participants, including Deepak Talreja, Sushant Savarkar, Khwaja Nizam Ahmad, Nilambari, Majid Ali, Mohamed Alvi, Mohd Irfan, Nitin, Mahjabeen, Arshad Perwez and Poonam.
At the conclusion of the event, AMUAAQ extended their heartfelt gratitude to all the blood donors, supporters, and volunteers who contributed to the success of the event. As a token of appreciation, certificates were presented by AMUAAQ to all the supporting organizations and school volunteers.
