Kathmandu: Today, Nepal is observing World Blood Donor Day by organizing several public awareness programs. June 14 is celebrated as World Blood Donor Day worldwide, aiming to raise public awareness about the importance of safe blood and blood products, as well as to express gratitude to voluntary and unpaid blood donors for their life-saving contributions.

This year's theme for World Blood Donor Day is "Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often," emphasizing the crucial role each individual can play in saving lives by donating blood and plasma. The theme also highlights the significance of maintaining a sustainable and secure blood and plasma supply through regular donations.

On this occasion, various organizations and hospitals across the country are hosting public sensitization, donor motivation, and blood donation programs. The Blood Donors Association Nepal is leading several initiatives during this period.

Among their activities are a weeklong sensitization program, including a bicycle rally, blood donor felicitation, orientation sessions, and an art exhibition, as informed by Keshab Maharjan, the association's general secretary. He also pointed out that the main challenges currently faced are the inadequate management of blood supplies in hospitals and the lack of incentive programs for blood donors.

World Blood Donor Day is celebrated annually on June 14 to coincide with the birthday of Dr. Karl Landsteiner, the scientist credited with discovering human blood groups. The first observance of World Blood Donor Day took place in 2004.