Chandigarh, January 22
Reinforcing the message that informed youth can transform public perception, the Regional Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (ROTTO), PGIMER, Chandigarh, in collaboration with SUKH Foundation, organised an Organ Donation Awareness and Interaction Session at MCM DAV College, Sector 36, Chandigarh, as part of NSS Week.
The initiative aimed to equip students and NSS volunteers with clear understanding of the medical, ethical, and legal aspects of organ donation, while dispelling long-standing myths through direct interaction with subject experts, witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and NSS volunteers and was marked by a lively question-and-answer interaction, reflecting strong interest among youth on issues related to organ donation.
Addressing the gathering, Saryu D. Madra, Consultant (IEC/Media), ROTTO, PGIMER , emphasised the importance of informed awareness. “Organ donation is built on trust and transparency. When young people understand the process correctly, they become effective messengers of this life-saving cause,” she stated, highlighting the robust legal and ethical framework governing organ donation in India.
Providing medical clarity, Dr. Navdeep Bansal, Transplant Coordinator, PGIMER, addressed prevalent myths and concerns. “Brain death is a legally certified and irreversible condition. Organ donation does not disfigure the body, and it is handed over to the family with dignity and without delay in last rites,” he explained, reassuring students about the integrity and sensitivity of the process.
Highlighting the role of the collaborating organisation, Amit Dewan, President, SUKH Foundation shared the Foundation’s commitment towards community outreach. “Our collaboration with ROTTO–PGIMER focuses on replacing fear with facts. Awareness among students is key to creating a compassionate and informed society,” he said.
Reiterating the spirit of NSS, Meenakshi Rana, NSS Coordinator, MCM DAV College, encouraged volunteers to take the message forward. “Organ donation reflects the highest form of service. NSS volunteers must lead this awareness with empathy and responsibility,” she remarked.
During the programme, a memento was presented to Neena Sharma, Principal, MCM DAV College, in appreciation of the institute’s support in promoting socially relevant initiatives and student participation.
The session concluded with an interactive discussion, where students raised pertinent questions on brain death, consent procedures, legal safeguards, and family counselling. The resource team addressed each query comprehensively, dispelling misconceptions and reinforcing confidence among participants.
The programme ended with a collective resolve by NSS volunteers to actively promote organ donation awareness within their campuses and communities, reaffirming the shared commitment of ROTTO–PGIMER, SUKH Foundation, and NSS towards building an informed and compassionate society.
