Did India Achieve a Record in Organ Transplants with Over 18,900 in 2024?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Over 18,900 organ transplants performed in 2024.
- India ranks third globally in organ transplants.
- Government initiatives include financial support for low-income patients.
- Growing public awareness about organ donation.
- Launch of the Aadhar-based NOTTO online pledge website.
New Delhi, Aug 2 (NationPress) In 2024, India reached an unprecedented milestone with over 18,900 organ transplants conducted, marking the highest number recorded in a single year, as announced by Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Saturday.
Speaking at the 15th Indian Organ Donation Day, organized by the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) under the Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health, at the Dr Ambedkar International Centre, Nadda emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing organ donation and transplant processes to benefit more citizens.
The minister highlighted the launch of the Aadhar-based NOTTO online pledge website in 2023, which has seen over 3.30 lakh individuals pledge their organs for donation, signifying a historic shift in public engagement.
He remarked, "The surge in pledge registrations indicates a growing consciousness among the populace. India achieved a significant feat by performing over 18,900 organ transplants in 2024, the highest ever in a single year."
This achievement represents a substantial increase from fewer than 5,000 transplants in 2013.
As a result, "India now stands third globally in the overall number of organ transplants, trailing only the US and China," Nadda stated.
Describing organ donation as one of humanity's noblest acts, he urged citizens to contribute significantly for the benefit of others.
The minister also pointed out the alarming rise in organ failure cases, posing a serious challenge to public health and increasing pressure on the healthcare system.
“Each year, countless individuals await organ transplants. Despite the pressing need, there exists a substantial gap between patients waiting for transplants and the available donors,” he remarked.
“This gap is not due to lack of willingness but often stems from misconceptions and a lack of awareness. Today serves as a vital platform to spread knowledge, foster discussions, and honor the donors and their families,” Nadda added.
Reiterating the government’s initiatives for organ transplantation, he mentioned that financial assistance of up to Rs 15 lakh is available for economically disadvantaged patients undergoing kidney, liver, heart, and lung transplants under the Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi.
Moreover, financial support of up to Rs 10,000 per month is offered post-transplant to cover medical expenses. The kidney transplant package has also been integrated into the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri-Jay Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), Nadda concluded.