VIJAYAWADA:Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav underscored the significance of organ donation and the Andhra Pradesh government’s commitment to supporting donors and their families. Speaking at an organ donation awareness conference organized by the Jeevandan Trust at Tummalapalli Vari Kshetraiah Kalaa Kshetram on Friday, Yadav highlighted that organ donation offers a form of immortality, as the donated organs continue to help others beyond one's lifetime.
He addressed the urgent need to bridge the gap between the demand for and supply of organs, noting that while nearly 3,800 patients in Andhra Pradesh are on organ transplant waiting lists, only 283 donors have been recorded in the past nine years. Nationally, over 500,000 people die annually due to a lack of organ transplants, with only 2 to 3% of the needed donations being met.
The Minister announced that the state government will honor organ donors and support their families by providing financial assistance and transportation for last rites. The awareness program aims to dispel myths about organ donation and improve the donation process.
"Let us unite to promote organ donation and ensure that every saved life contributes to a healthier and more compassionate society," Yadav urged.
He also criticized the previous administration for leaving unpaid dues and inadequate infrastructure, which have impeded progress in the health sector. MLA Bonda Uma Maheswara Rao emphasized the importance of expanding awareness from eye donation to organ donation.
The event began with a walkathon to engage the community in the cause of organ donation.