MP Kota Srinivasa Pujari inaugurates Blood Donor Day 2026 at Bhandarkar’s College, Kundapur

Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP Kota Srinivasa Pujari on Saturday inaugurated Blood Donor Day 2026 at Bhandarkar’s College in Kundapur, an event jointly organised by the Indian Red Cross Organisation and the college to encourage voluntary blood donation across the district.

Addressing the gathering, Pujari called blood donation one of the most meaningful acts a person can perform. He praised the Kundapur unit of the Red Cross for its consistent work in collecting blood and delivering health services during emergencies, wars, and natural disasters. The organisation, he said, carries a broader mission — spreading peace, compassion, and humanity wherever it operates.

Pujari expressed hope that events like this would build stronger awareness about the need for blood donors and steadily grow the pool of regular contributors across the region.

Red Cross Kundapur Chairman S. Jayakara Shetty presided over the function. Among those present were Red Cross Treasurer Shivaram Shetty, Bhandarkar’s Graduate College Principal Dr. Shubhakarachari, Student Welfare Officer Satyanarayana, and Pre-Graduation College Principal Dr. Saroj M.

The occasion also served as a recognition ceremony. Principals and lecturers from several degree colleges in Udupi district who organised blood donation camps were honoured, alongside individuals who have donated blood the highest number of times. Government First Grade College, Tenkanidiyur, received acknowledgement on behalf of colleges. Sudharshan Barekatte, who has donated blood an remarkable 75 times, spoke on behalf of the donor community and shared his experience.

Satyanarayan Puranik, Secretary of the Kundapur unit of the Indian Red Cross, welcomed the guests. First aid trainer Dr. Sonny DeCosta compered the programme, while Treasurer Shivaram Shetty delivered the vote of thanks.

📰 Source: Kundapra