Imphal, July 28: Manipur’s first Biometric-Based Blood Donor Management System was inaugurated today at the Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal.

The system was officially launched by Prof. G. Sunil Kumar Sharma, Director of RIMS, Imphal, in the presence of Prof. N. Sanjib Singh, Medical Superintendent of RIMS Hospital, and Prof. Pratima Khoyumthem, Head of the Department of Transfusion Medicine. The event was attended by Heads of Departments, faculty members, officials, staff, and blood donors.

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Speaking at the occasion, Prof. G. Sunil Kumar Sharma stated that the biometric-based screening system, developed by the IT Cell of RIMS, aims to prevent illegal and involuntary blood donations. It will identify repeat donors who have not completed the mandatory 90-day interval, help curb commercial blood sales, and screen for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV. He added that the system ensures greater safety, traceability, and discourages professional blood donation practices harmful to public health.

Pradip Moirangthem, President of the Federation of Indian Blood Donors Organization (FIBDO), Manipur, who also attended the inaugural programme, described the launch as a major step toward curbing professional blood donations and ensuring ethical practices. He urged that the biometric-based system be extended to other hospitals such as JNIMS and Babina Multi Speciality Hospital to enhance accountability and safety in blood donation across the state.