SPECIAL BLOOD DONATION CAMPAIGN ORGANIZED BY 21 INFANTRY DIVISION TO SUPPORT ANURADHAPURA BLOOD BANK

Due to an exceptionally high daily demand for blood at the Anuradhapura Blood Bank, a critical shortage has emerged, significantly affecting the treatment of kidney, cancer, and thalassemia patients. This shortage has also impacted the availability of blood required for surgeries, maternity care, emergency procedures, and various other medical needs.

In response to an urgent request from the Anuradhapura Blood Bank, the Commander Security Forces (Wanni) directed the immediate organization of a mobile blood donation programme. Accordingly, a special blood donation campaign was held from 0900 hrs to 1800 hrs on 25 November 2025 at the Headquarters of the 21 Infantry Division.

The initiative was conducted under the guidance of Major General T N K Perera, General Officer Commanding, 21 Infantry Division, and supervised by Brigadier B A M P Balasooriya RSP, Commander, 212 Infantry Brigade. A dedicated 10-member medical team, including two doctors from the Anuradhapura Blood Bank, provided essential medical and technical support throughout the programme.

This humanitarian effort received an overwhelming response, with 124 personnel volunteering to donate blood. Donors included troops from Log Comd (W), RHQ GR, Headquarters 21 Infantry Division, and officers and soldiers from units under command to the 211, 212, and 213 Infantry Brigades.

The successful conduct of the programme underscores the Sri Lanka Army’s unwavering commitment to supporting national healthcare requirements and contributing to vital social welfare initiatives.