Thousands of patients in India wait every year for an organ transplant. A single deceased donor can save several lives by donating organs like the heart, liver, kidneys, lungs and pancreas, and help many more through tissues like corneas and skin. Here is how to pledge.
Who runs organ donation in India
The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is the national body for organ and tissue donation and transplant. It works with regional and state organisations. Organ donation is governed by the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994, which bans the sale of organs.
Types of donation
- **Living donation:** a living person can donate one kidney or part of the liver, usually to a close relative, under strict rules.
- **Deceased donation:** after brain stem death, organs can be donated with family consent. Some tissues, like corneas, can also be donated after natural death.
Brain stem death is certified by a team of doctors as per the law. The person is kept on a ventilator, but cannot recover.
How to pledge online
- Visit the NOTTO website.
- Choose the option to pledge for organ and tissue donation.
- Register using your Aadhaar number and OTP.
- Select the organs and tissues you wish to donate.
- Submit and download your donor card.
You can also pledge through some state portals and hospitals.
Also Read: Voter ID Apply Online: How to Register as a New Voter With Form 6 and Download Your e-EPIC | How to Apply for Passport Online in India: Documents, Fees and Steps on Passport Seva
Who can pledge
Anyone of any age, caste, religion or community can pledge. People below 18 need the consent of a parent or guardian. Medical suitability is decided at the time of donation.
Tell your family
In India, the family’s consent is needed at the time of deceased donation, even if you have pledged. Talk to your family about your wish so they can honour it.
Common myths
- **Myth:** Doctors will not try to save a donor. **Fact:** doctors treating a patient are not part of the transplant team, and donation is considered only after brain stem death is certified.
- **Myth:** Religion does not allow it. **Fact:** major religions support saving lives through donation.
- **Myth:** The body is disfigured. **Fact:** organs are removed surgically and the body is handed over with dignity for last rites.
- **Myth:** Only young people can donate. **Fact:** medical suitability matters, not age alone.
National Organ Donation Day
India observes National Organ Donation Day every year to spread awareness and honour donors and their families.
Bottom line
Pledging organ donation takes a few minutes on the NOTTO website. Register, carry your donor card and tell your family about your decision.
Source / स्रोत: National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
