In Focus by The Hindu Blood safety in India: What are the issues and how can they be resolved?
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Nov 15, 2025 Dr. Rizwan Javed, a transfusion medicine expert from Kolkata, discusses the recent tragic incident in Jharkhand where contaminated blood led to HIV infections in children. He highlights the critical nature of blood safety, examining current testing protocols and the gaps in policy that allowed such lapses. Dr. Javed explains the importance of mandatory infection screenings, the differences between various HIV testing methods, and the challenges in accessing advanced tests like nucleic acid testing. He emphasizes the need for centralized oversight and equitable blood access across India.
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Blood Policy Is Service-Oriented
- India's 2002 National Blood Policy frames blood as a service, not a commodity.
- Regulation exists under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act plus oversight bodies but implementation varies.
How A Donation Visit Actually Unfolds
- Donor screening begins with a questionnaire, confidential counselling, physical exam and hemoglobin check.
- After donation, samples are taken for testing and the donor is observed briefly before leaving.
Perform Five Mandatory Infection Tests
- Always screen donated blood for HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, syphilis and malaria as mandated.
- These five tests are legally non-negotiable in India for blood safety.