Status of organ transplant surgeries in India

Source: The post status of organ transplant surgeries in India has been created, based on the article “Express View on illicit kidney trafficking: The body shop” published in “Indian Express” on 17th October 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2– Governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health

Context:  The article discusses India’s organ transplant sector, highlighting both its growth and the illegal organ trafficking networks. It mentions legal donations and reveals international illicit markets, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement and better awareness about organ donation.

For detailed information on Organ donation in India read this article here

What is the status of organ transplant surgeries in India?

1. India is a major hub for organ transplants, performing about 18,000 operations each year, the highest number after the US and China.
2. These surgeries mostly occur in private hospitals and attract international patients, showcasing India’s advanced healthcare capabilities.

For detailed information on India trails in deceased organ donation read this article here

What illegal activities are associated with organ transplants?

1. The sector faces challenges with illegal organ trafficking involving doctors, hospital staff, and criminals.
2. A report exposed a network operating between India and Bangladesh, using fake documents to facilitate organ sales, deceiving the system as “altruistic donations.”

What are the legal frameworks for organ donation in India?

1. India’s laws allow three types of organ donations: from close relatives, altruistic donors, and swap donations between incompatible pairs.
2. Foreign donors must prove their donations are not coerced or paid for, requiring a certificate from their embassy.

For detailed information on National Organ Transplant Programme(NOTP) read this article here

What are the consequences of these illegal activities?

1. Illegal organ trading has been ongoing for over eight years, undermining trust in the healthcare system.
2. Despite some police success in dismantling trafficking rings, more consistent and thorough investigations are needed to preserve the integrity of organ transplantation.

What are the solutions to organ trafficking?

In addition to stronger law enforcement, there is a need to raise awareness about organ donation, correct misconceptions, and address gender imbalances—where women are often donors and men recipients. These steps could reduce organ trafficking in the long term.

Question for practice:

Examine the challenges faced by India’s organ transplant sector, including both legal frameworks and the illegal organ trafficking networks.