Panchkula, March 8 – Haryana made history by hosting India’s first-ever women-only blood donation camp at Government Women’s PG College, Panchkula, to mark International Women’s Day. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini honored the occasion, praising women for their dedication to humanitarian service and their willingness to save lives through blood donation.
Speaking at the event, CM Saini highlighted that International Women’s Day commemorates the struggles and achievements of women worldwide. He said, “Blood donation is an act of humanity, and this unique camp will inspire women across the country to contribute to society in meaningful ways.” Over 138 women participated in the blood donation drive, and each donor was felicitated with a certificate of appreciation.
Women Lead by Example in Social Service
The CM acknowledged that this was the first time he had witnessed a blood donation camp exclusively for women. “This is a powerful way to celebrate Women’s Day,” he remarked. Women from various fields, including ITBP officers, doctors, teachers, and sanitation workers, participated in the initiative. Their involvement underscored their deep commitment to humanity, proving that women not only nurture families but also play a crucial role in saving lives.
Haryana Honors ‘Best Daughters’ from the ‘Best Village’
As part of the celebration, three outstanding girls from Barwala village in Panchkula were honored for their academic achievements. The village earned the ‘Best Village’ title for maintaining a gender ratio of 1,059 girls per 1,000 boys, reflecting the progressive mindset of its residents. CM Saini awarded ₹75,000 to Mahak, ₹45,000 to Arzoo, and ₹30,000 to Latika Bhatti, recognizing their excellence in education.
The ‘Best Village’ initiative, run under the PC-PNDT program, encourages villages to maintain a healthy gender ratio by rewarding those with 1,000 or more girls per 1,000 boys.
CM Saini emphasized that blood donation is a noble act that gives the gift of life. He pointed out that despite medical advancements, there is no substitute for human blood. “Even one unit of donated blood can save a life,” he added.
Government’s Focus on Women’s Health
The Haryana government is actively addressing anemia prevention among women. Under the Anemia-Free India program, Haryana holds the top national rank. Free iron sucrose injections are provided to pregnant women, and under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, financial assistance of ₹5,000 is given to support maternal health and nutrition. So far, over 913,000 pregnant women have benefited.
Additionally, the government has launched free ambulance services for pregnant women, and through the Mukhyamantri Doodh Uphaar Yojana, fortified milk is distributed to over 1 million children and 300,000 mothers. Under Mission Indradhanush, vaccinations have been provided to over 300,000 pregnant women and 1.1 million children to prevent serious illnesses.
“Blood Donation is Hope and a New Life” – Health Minister
Haryana’s Health and Family Welfare Minister, Aarti Singh Rao, commended the initiative, stating, “This is not just a blood donation camp but a symbol of women’s empowerment.” She emphasized that this is the first time in India that only women have donated blood at a camp, making it a historic milestone.
She also highlighted the PC-PNDT program, which rewards villages with improved gender ratios and supports girl child education. The honored girls from Government Senior Secondary School, Barwala, were celebrated as role models for future generations.
The event was attended by MLA Shakti Rani Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary of Health Sudhir Rajpal, CM’s Additional Principal Secretary Dr. Saket Kumar, Panchkula Mayor Kulbhushan Goyal, and CMO Dr. Mukta Kumar, along with officials from the health and other government departments.
