More than 50 Indian residents in Shanghai donated 15,400 milliliters of blood on Sept 12 at the 12th Blood Donation Drive themed "Share Blood, Unite Hearts".

The Indian Association of China organized the event at the Shanghai Blood Center with local partners, including the Hongkou District Health Commission, the district's blood administration center, and the Shanghai Foreign Agencies Service Department.

Since the initiative began, Indian donors have contributed 2,284 units of blood, equivalent to 456,800 ml. Organizers said the project aims to strengthen friendship between the peoples of China and India.

Among this year's returning donors was Nishtha, a member of the Indian Association of China who has worked in Shanghai for 21 years. It was her fourth time taking part. Her son Aryan volunteered at the event and played the drums along to a Chinese song.

Nishtha said her son was born in Shanghai and has deep feelings for the city.

Vishal, who has lived and worked in Shanghai for 11 years, was taking part for the seventh time. A longtime donor, he said he returns each year because donating blood can help patients in urgent need.

For Saroj and Ambika, an Indian couple who have worked in Shanghai for a decade, the annual drive inspired them to donate. They already regard Shanghai as their second home and wanted to give back to the city, the couple said.

Source: Hongkou district government