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The Government of India’s robust strategies to enhance organ donation rates and curb illegal trafficking are multifaceted. Leveraging organizations like NOTTO, ROTTOs, and SOTTOs established under the National Organ Transplant Program, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare drives awareness through a range of measures. As part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the ministry orchestrates a “Jan Andolan” via social media, featuring pledge campaigns and slogan competitions on the MyGov platform.
The ongoing “Angdaan Mahotsav,” initiated in July 2023, spotlights various nationwide programs fostering awareness on deceased donor organ donations. Notably, the inaugural National Webinar on organ and tissue donation, emphasizing Kidney and Liver failure prevention, drew participation from a multitude of medical professionals.
Critical platforms like the ‘www.notto.mohfw.gov.in‘ website and a 24×7 toll-free helpline (1800114770) provide information and tele-counseling for potential donors. Diverse activities including Indian Organ Donation Day celebrations, seminars, workshops, debates, and media campaigns bolster awareness. Educational outreach extends to schoolchildren with programs, competitions, and special campaigns on the MyGov platform.
To make transplants more accessible, the kidney transplantation package is now part of the PM-JAY scheme of Ayushman Bharat. Additionally, the Ministry extends financial support under Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN) to economically disadvantaged patients in need of heart, lung, liver, or kidney transplants.
Addressing legal aspects, the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994 mandates an Appropriate Authority in each State/UT to investigate breaches. Enforcement largely falls under the jurisdiction of States and UTs, empowering them to take action against illicit operators orchestrating organ trade.
Prof. S.P Singh Bhagel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, highlighted these initiatives in a recent statement to the Lok Sabha, emphasizing the government’s commitment to bolstering organ donation and combating illegal practices.
