Hyderabad, June 13 – As the world to observe World Blood Donor Day, honouring the heroes who selflessly donate blood to save others, one name stands out in Hyderabad for his unwavering, decades-long dedication to this noble cause — Yogesh Raj Srivastav.
A resident of Doodhbowli in the Old City, Yogesh Raj is not just a blood donor; he is a symbol of consistent compassion and civic duty. Since October 2, 1983, when he first donated blood at an NSS camp on Gandhi Jayanthi, he has made 136 blood donations — and continues undeterred in his mission. “Saving a life is my greatest joy, and I will continue this mission till my last breath,” he says, with quiet determination.
Inspired by Visionaries, Driven by Humanity
Yogesh Raj’s journey was ignited by the encouragement of Dr. Prabhakar Reddy, who explained the life-saving importance of regular blood donation. Since then, Yogesh pledged to donate blood every three months. His commitment was further strengthened by the powerful words of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who once declared, “Every drop of my blood will be used for the upliftment of the country.”
The tragic assassination of Rajiv Gandhi deeply impacted him, becoming a turning point that led to his dream of establishing a blood bank in his own name — a dream rooted not in ambition, but in service.
A Lifeline for Thousands in Hyderabad
Over the years, Yogesh Raj has built an impressive network of over 7,200 active donors in Hyderabad. His efforts have helped save the lives of more than 8,000 patients. Whether working with hospitals, societies, or blood banks, he ensures that no request for blood goes unanswered.
His phone is more than a device — it’s a 24×7 helpline for families in medical distress. From coordinating emergency donations to personally motivating youth to come forward, Yogesh Raj leads by example. His generosity doesn’t stop at blood. He regularly distributes books, blankets, and daily essentials to the needy, quietly extending a helping hand where it’s most needed.
Yogesh Raj Srivastav Pledges Organ Donation for Armed Forces Medical Services
In an inspiring act of patriotism and humanity, Yogesh Raj Srivastav has proudly announced his pledge to donate his organs for the benefit of the Armed Forces Medical Services under the Armed Forces Organ Retrieval & Transplant Authority of India (AFORTAI).
Sharing his heartfelt motivation, Srivastav stated, “I consider it a duty of every citizen to give back to our soldiers — the real heroes who stand guard at the borders day and night, sacrificing their dreams and family lives so we can sleep in peace.”
He further urged fellow citizens to come forward and enroll themselves in this noble cause, emphasizing the unmatched contribution of soldiers in safeguarding the nation. “This is a humble gesture for the brave hearts of India who deserve every form of support and respect from us civilians,” he added.
Through this pledge, Srivastav hopes to spark a movement of awareness and action, encouraging more people to consider body and organ donation as a way of giving back to the country.
Commemorating National Heroes Through Service
On significant days like the birth anniversaries of national leaders — including Gandhi Jayanthi, Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti, and Ambedkar Jayanti — and on World Blood Donor Day, Yogesh Raj organizes voluntary blood donation camps to turn tribute into action. These events are more than ceremonies; they’re life-saving missions powered by collective goodwill.
A Mission That Lives On
On this World Blood Donor Day, Yogesh Raj Srivastav stands as a beacon of what one individual can achieve through sustained effort, humility, and compassion. His story is not just about blood donation — it’s about building a culture of giving, about inspiring future generations to see service as a way of life.
For Yogesh Raj, donating blood isn’t a task or an obligation. It’s a calling. A lifelong commitment that embodies the true spirit of humanity.