Punjab Outlook

Gurdaspur– PCT Humanity (NGO) and the Institute of Hotel Management, Gurdaspur (an autonomous body under the Ministry of Tourism) jointly organized a blood donation camp at the institute auditorium. The main objective of the camp was to integrate the central missions “Swachh Nari – Sashakt Parivar” (Clean Woman – Empowered Family) and “Swachhta Hi Seva” (Cleanliness is Service) with social, health, and community service.
Founder of PCT Humanity, Dr. Joginder Singh Salaria, personally donated blood and received a certificate. Expressing concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in Punjab, he said that today blood is being shed unnecessarily due to violence, whereas this blood should be dedicated to the nation and society. He emphasized that every drop of blood belongs to humanity and the people of Punjab. It is not age but the spirit that matters in blood donation. Highlighting the importance of blood donation, he said it is the greatest service to humanity. A small contribution can become the reason for a new life. Every drop of blood donated becomes a ray of hope for a patient fighting for life in a hospital bed.
Dr. Salaria urged governments and political leaders to rise above petty politics. He said the recent floods have caused immense damage to Punjab, with affected people deprived of even food and clothing. Centuries-old bridges have collapsed, and if corrective measures are not taken immediately, even the Bhakra Dam could collapse, bringing catastrophic floods in Punjab. “If Punjab itself is destroyed, who will you do politics for?” he asked.
Speaking about Punjab’s loyalty to the nation, Dr. Salaria stressed that governments must stop doubting Punjabis. “No one can understand the significance of the National Flag better than Punjabis. It is the Punjabis who stand tall at the borders facing the enemy with courage.” He recalled that whether it was the freedom struggle or safeguarding independence, Punjabis have made the highest sacrifices for the nation. Punjabis have set an example of communal harmony and peace for the entire world. The brave warriors of this land have always come forward to share in people’s joys and sorrows.
Condemning drug abuse, Dr. Salaria said, “Drugs do not bring life closer but death closer. A community that sinks into drugs destroys its future. Drugs are not only the ruin of an individual but also the destruction of an entire family. Saying ‘No’ to drugs means saying ‘Yes’ to life.” He emphasized that the youth are the backbone of any community, and if they remain trapped in drugs, progress is impossible. He appealed to the government to provide skill training and employment opportunities, as unemployment is pushing youth towards addiction. He also thanked Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat for his support in organizing the camp.
Principal of the Institute of Hotel Management, Mr. Ashwani Kachru, said that blood donation is a noble act that not only saves a life but also strengthens the spirit of service, cooperation, and responsibility in society. He added that families and communities feel proud when they participate in this life-saving act. “Blood donation is a religion where there is no place for caste, creed, or discrimination – it is linked only with humanity. Our institution believes that linking blood donation with cleanliness and health is true service to society. When students, teachers, and local citizens donate blood together, it becomes not just a medical contribution but also a symbol of unity and cooperation.”
The camp was managed under the leadership of Dr. Pooja Khosla by a specialized medical team from Civil Hospital, Gurdaspur. The team conducted proper health check-ups of all donors and collected over 50 units of blood in a safe environment. On this occasion, Dr. Joginder Singh Salaria personally donated blood, not only leading the campaign but also sending a strong inspirational message to youth and citizens.
The camp witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members, Youth Tourism Club members, and local citizens. Every donor was honored with refreshments, fruit juices, and certificates. Additionally, under the “Swachhta Hi Seva Abhiyan,” all blood donors underwent health check-ups and were presented with PPE kits and Swachhta Hero badges.