Srinagar, May 18: To mark the first death anniversary of human rights activist and lawyer Sajid Iqbal Khandey, the Sajid Iqbal Foundation for Peace and Human Rights Friday organized a blood donation camp at the SK Institute of Medical Sciences, Soura.
 A handout said: “The purpose of the camp was to equip the SKIMS blood bank with enough blood to successfully respond to road accident emergencies and save precious lives. Students, doctors, teachers, lawyers, housewives and people from all walks of life donated blood to make the initiative a huge success.”
 The highlight of the event was a large number of female donors who inspired several others to donate blood.
  “I have donated blood seven times already and this was my eighth time. I want to tell everyone of my age that this is the best way to give back to society. All Kashmiri youth should donate blood”, said Aashna Jamal a 20 year old female student from Gagribal.
 Speaking on the occasion Sehar Iqbal, Executive Director of the Foundation said: “Sajid himself donated blood regularly and we couldn't think of a better way to pay homage to his life and work. We are grateful to all those who came forward for their peers in need and donated blood in large numbers. The 52 pints of blood collected today will help the hospital in saving precious lives in the valley.”
 The Foundation's upcoming initiatives include an International Essay Competition for Kashmiri youth on “Next Steps to Peace in Kashmir.” The competition carries a top prize of Rs 1 Lakh for the winner, Rs 50'000 & Rs 25'000 for the 2nd and 3rd runners up respectively, the foundation people said.
 “It is open to all Kashmiris from 18-30 years of age. The last date for sending in entries is the 7th of June, 2012. Entries, that will be judged by an eminent jury, should be emailed at sehar@thesajidiqbalfoundation.com,” they said.
 The foundation is also organising an International Peace Conference on Kashmir on the 18th and 19th of June, 2012.

Lastupdate on : Fri, 18 May 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Fri, 18 May 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:00 IST