A Noble Gift That Lives On: Organ Donation in India

August 13 is observed worldwide as World Organ Donation Day, a reminder of one of humanity’s most selfless acts — saving lives even after we are gone.

In India, organ donation remains critically low — just 8 donors per million people, compared to 45 per million in countries like Spain or the United States. This shortage is not due to medical limitations but largely because of myths, stigma, and lack of awareness.

Under the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994, there is a strict legal process for organ donation. A multidisciplinary medical board must confirm brain death, ensuring ethical and transparent procedures. Yet, many families hesitate to consent, fearing disfigurement of the body or due to cultural and religious misconceptions — all of which are unfounded.

Recent NOTTO (National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization) reforms aim to address another issue: gender disparity. Data shows that while 63% of living donors are women, only 23–47% of recipients are women. The new rules prioritize women recipients and relatives of donors on transplant waiting lists, promoting equity and justice — though proper implementation is key to avoiding misuse.

Awareness must start early, perhaps from the school level, and hospitals should play a proactive role in counseling families. Countries like Spain have even adopted "presumed consent" laws, where every adult is considered a donor unless they opt out — a model India could explore with safeguards.

Organ donation is not just a medical act; it’s a lasting legacy of compassion. Every life saved is a testament to the fact that humanity can continue beyond one’s lifetime.

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