Who can Donate Blood ?
Here are the specific eligibility criteria for donating blood in India as of 2026
1. Basic Physical Requirements
Age: 18 to 65 years. (First-time donors should ideally be under 60).
Weight: Minimum 45 kg to donate 350 ml; at least 55 kg to donate 450 ml.
Hemoglobin: Not less than 12.5 g/dL.
Pulse: Between 50 and 100 beats per minute (with no irregularities).
Blood Pressure: Systolic: 100–180 mmHg
Diastolic: 50–100 mmHg
Temperature: Normal (Oral temperature not exceeding 37.5°C).
2. Time Intervals Between Donations
Males: Can donate every 3 months (90 days).
Females: Can donate every 4 months (120 days)
3. Temporary Deferrals (When to Wait)
You must wait for a specific period if any of the following apply:
Alcohol: Wait 24 hours after your last drink.
Tattoos/Piercings: Wait 6 to 12 months from the date of the procedure.
Dental Work: Wait 72 hours for minor work; up to 1 month for major surgery.
Antibiotics/Medication: Wait 48 hours after finishing a course of allopathic or even Ayurvedic/Homeopathic medicine.
Infections:
Malaria: Wait 3 months after full recovery,
Dengue/Chikungunya: Wait 6 months after full recovery,
Typhoid: Wait 12 months after recovery
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Defer for 6 to 12 months after childbirth or until the baby is significantly weaned.
Vaccination: Wait 28 days after most live vaccines (like Typhoid or Flu).
4. Permanent Deferrals (Who Cannot Donate)
Individuals with the following conditions are generally disqualified from donating blood in India:
Chronic Diseases: Cancer, Heart Disease, Epilepsy, Kidney ailments, or severe Asthma.
Infectious Diseases: HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B or C, Syphilis, or Leprosy.
Diabetes: If you are on Insulin, you cannot donate. However, if your diabetes is controlled by diet or oral medication (and hasn't changed in 4 weeks), you may be eligible.
High-Risk Behaviors: Intravenous drug use or individuals with multiple sexual partners.
Preparation Tips
Aadhaar/ID: Always carry a valid government ID (Aadhaar is preferred).
Meal: Do not donate on an empty stomach. Eat a light meal at least 2–4 hours before.
Hydration: Drink at least 2 glasses of water just before donating.
Post-Donation: Rest for 15 minutes and enjoy the refreshment (usually juice and biscuits) provided by the camp.
