Organ donation is the greatest service a person can render in the medical field, said Dr. Sunder Shankar, while inaugurating the World Organ Donation Day celebrations at Sri Shridevi Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Hospital, Tumakuru.

Speaking on the occasion, he said that organ donation is an invaluable act that can give a new life to many patients suffering from organ failure. He urged people to come forward voluntarily for organ donation and explained that donating organs after death is one of the most noble deeds a human can perform.

He stressed the importance of awareness in increasing organ donation rates. There are still many myths and misconceptions among people regarding organ donation, and these need to be removed through continuous education. By donating organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and eyes, one can save or improve the quality of multiple lives.

Chairman of Sri Shridevi Charitable Trust, Dr. M. R. Hulinaykar, who presided over the function, said:
“Creating awareness about organ donation is not only the duty of medical institutions but also a major social responsibility. We must collectively work to motivate society towards this noble cause.”

He added that the younger generation should be made aware of the value of organ donation through school and college-level awareness programs, and that hospitals should lead by example in registering and pledging for organ donation.

Speakers pointed out that in countries like the United States, cadaver (brain-dead) organ transplantation started in the 1990s, and India has also made significant strides in this field in recent years. With government encouragement and improved infrastructure, organ transplant surgeries are becoming more accessible in our country.

The event was attended by senior doctors, faculty members, medical students, and staff. Notable dignitaries included: