Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Together We Heal: PGIMER’s Resident doctors host blood donation camp in solidarity with Pahalgam victims
Ravi Jakhu
Chandigarh, April 29, 2025: In a stirring tribute to the victims of the recent Pahalgam tragedy, the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) 2025 at PGIMER has launched a two-day Blood Donation Camp at the institute’s Blood Bank.
The camp, held in memory of the 27 lives lost and many others injured in the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, stands as a symbol of compassion, national unity, and healing.
Inaugurating the camp as Chief Guest, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, set the tone for the event with a heartfelt message: “This initiative transcends a mere call for donations; it embodies our solidarity, compassion, and humanity toward those in distress. Today is a moment of unity, and I urge everyone to donate blood to demonstrate our strength as a nation standing with the victims' families.”
Leading from the front, Prof. Lal himself donated blood, emphasizing the significance of voluntary donation: “For 30 years, I’ve dedicated myself to this cause. Blood and organ donation are truly noble acts. I hope my donation today inspires others to follow suit.”
Dr. Vishnu Jinja, President, ARD 2025, highlighted the emotional drive behind the initiative: “This tragic incident has left deep scars on our collective conscience. By donating blood, we honor the memories of those lost and provide a lifeline to survivors still battling for recovery.”
The camp witnessed an overwhelming show of support from PGIMER leadership and staff. Among the notable contributors were:
- Prof. R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academics)
- Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent, who also donated blood
- Prof. Rati Ram Sharma, Head, Department of Transfusion Medicine
- Prof. Sandeep Bansal, Dept. of Otolaryngology
- Dr. Suchet Sachdev and Dr. Gagneen Sandhu, both from the Department of Transfusion Medicine and SOTTO Punjab, respectively
Prof. Koushal remarked, “Every drop of blood counts. Today, our collective action sends a powerful message of compassion and service.”
Prof. Rati Ram Sharma added, “As the camp continues tomorrow, we urge more people to join this movement. Let our actions convey to the victims’ families that they are not alone.”
Dr. Puneet Kuntal, Organizing Secretary of the event, emphasized the broader purpose: “This camp aims to ignite a wave of community participation, restoring hope in the wake of tragedy.
Dr. Gagneen Sandhu, who also donated blood, reflected, “This initiative is a testament to what it means to be part of a compassionate and resilient medical community.”