Maharashtra ranks first in blood collection in India, with approximately 21 lakh donors giving blood last year. Dr Mahendra Kendre, assistant director (Blood Cell) at the state’s Directorate of Health Services, Mumbai, told mid-day, “There are nearly 395 blood banks in the state, most of them located in urban areas due to the high infrastructure requirements. However, storage centres are available in rural regions. The demand for blood is significantly higher in cities, as major surgeries take place there.”

Dr Kendre added, “To ensure easy access to information on daily blood stock, blood donation camps, and other related details for needy patients across the state, the central government has developed the e-RaktKosh portal. Blood banks regularly update information on this platform, making it easier for patients suffering from thalassemia, haemophilia, sickle cell disease, and other blood-related disorders to find blood without unnecessary hassle.”