Indian Red Cross to Collect Data on 246 Blood Banks, Fight Commercialization by October
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Health policy & public health· Prelims·
Public health infrastructure and disease surveillance: a GS2 case study on regulating blood banking.
Why in news
The Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) is initiating a data collection drive for 246 blood banks in Andhra Pradesh to prevent commercialization and disease spread.
Background
The IRCS will upload data to the Blood Banks Management Software (BBMS) by October. The State Blood Transfusion Centre will monitor activities, while district Collectors conduct monthly reviews.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyIndian Red Cross Society (IRCS) is the body tasked with blood bank data collection.
- FactThere are 246 blood banks in Andhra Pradesh targeted for data collection.
- S&TBlood banks must perform mandatory testing for HIV and Hepatitis-B.
- FactDonors are required to possess an Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) card.
- BodyBlood Banks Management Software (BBMS) is the platform for data uploading.
Prelims practice question
With reference to blood bank management in Andhra Pradesh, consider the following statements:
- Donors are required to possess a Universal Health Card for blood donation.
- The Indian Red Cross Society is initiating a data collection drive for 246 blood banks.
- Blood banks are required to upload data to the Blood Banks Management Software (BBMS).
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)2 only
- (b)1 and 3 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only — Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: Donors are required to possess an Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) card.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the measures required to regulate blood banking in India to prevent commercialization while ensuring the safety and accessibility of blood for patients.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Regulatory oversight: Strengthening monitoring by State Blood Transfusion Centres to curb illegal blood sales
- Digital integration: Leveraging ABHA cards and BBMS for transparent donor tracking and disease screening
- Public health safety: Standardizing mandatory screening for blood-borne pathogens like HIV and Hepatitis-B
Keywords: Commercialization · Public Health Infrastructure · Transparency · Disease Surveillance · Digital Health Records
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.