On January 16, 2025, the Nagpur Zonal Transplant Coordination Center (ZTCC) organized a heartfelt event at Vanamati Auditorium, Nagpur, to honour deceased organ donors and their families. In 2024, Nagpur ZTCC facilitated 39 organ donations, contributing to approximately 23% of Maharashtra's total 172 donations for the year. All 39 donor families were felicitated during this special occasion for their extraordinary act of kindness amidst personal grief.

Dr. Anil Kumar, Director, NOTTO at the inaugural ceremony

The event was graced by Dr. Anil Kumar, Director of the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO). Representing ZTCC Nagpur were Dr. Sanjay Kolte (Chairman, ZTCC Nagpur), Dr. Rahul Saxena (Secretary), and Mr. Dinesh Mandpe (ZTCC Coordinator). Renowned ophthalmologist and actor Dr. Debashish Naha also attended the event, adding to the significance of the occasion.

Dr. Anil Kumar, lauded Maharashtra's exceptional contribution to the national organ donation movement. In his address, he stated, ”In the painful moment of losing a loved one, the decision of their family to donate organs is truly commendable. Their selfless act grants new life to many patients in need.”

The atmosphere turned emotional as donor families shared heartfelt stories and memories of their loved ones. While many were moved to tears, they also expressed solace in knowing that their decision had helped save lives.

The event also recognized the contributions of hospitals and medical professionals who played a pivotal role in promoting organ donation and transplantation in the region.

Dr. Anil Kumar felicitated by ZTCC Nagpur

• AIIMS, Government Medical College (GMC), and Super Specialty Hospital, Nagpur – For recording the highest number of organ donations in 2024.
• Care Hospital and KIMS Kingsway Hospital – For achieving the highest number of heart retrievals in 2024.

Donor families felicitated at the event