India achieved a remarkable milestone of performing over 18,900 organ transplants in 2024

India has achieved a historic milestone in organ transplantation, performing over 18,900 transplants in 2024, the highest number ever recorded in a single year. This significant achievement was announced by Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda on the 15th Indian Organ Donation Day on 2nd August 2025. The remarkable increase from fewer than 5,000 transplants in 2013 has propelled India to the third position globally in the total number of transplants, behind only the United States and China.

Key Highlights of India’s Progress:

• World Leader in Hand Transplants: India has emerged as the world leader in hand transplants, having performed an impressive 73 upper extremity transplants as of September 2024. This showcases the nation’s advanced surgical capabilities and the dedication of its medical professionals, particularly at institutions like Amrita Hospital in Kochi, which has performed the highest number of such surgeries.
• Public Awareness and Participation: The government’s initiatives to raise awareness are showing positive results. Since the launch of the Aadhaar-based NOTTO online pledge website in 2023, over 3.30 lakh citizens have pledged to donate their organs, reflecting a growing public commitment to the cause.
• Financial Support for Patients: To make organ transplantation more accessible, the government has introduced several financial support mechanisms:
  • Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi: This scheme provides financial assistance of up to ₹15 lakh for poor patients undergoing transplants for kidneys, liver, heart, and lungs.
  • Post-Transplant Care: It also offers a monthly support of up to ₹10,000 to cover post-transplant medical expenses.
  • Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY: A kidney transplant package has been included under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri-Jan Arogya Yojana, providing cashless cover of up to ₹5 lakh per family for eligible beneficiaries.
• National Framework: The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) is the national-level body responsible for regulating and promoting organ donation and transplantation activities, working to bridge the gap between the rising demand for organs and their availability.

(PIB)