ROTARIAN LAL GOEL URGES A CHANGE IN MINDSET TOWARDS ORGAN DONATION IN INDIA
by Prashant Kapadia/NHN
Mumbai, 16th July 2025 – Rotarian Lal Goel, Founder and Charter President of the Rotary Club of Organ Donation International and Chairman of the Organ Donation India Foundation and GYAN, delivered a compelling address highlighting the need for a fundamental change in public attitudes toward organ donation. As the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker, Rtn Goel emphasised the importance of pledging to donate organs while ensuring that family members are informed and supportive of the decision.
Community Gathering Highlights Critical Need
The program, organised by the Rotary Club of Bombay Harbour View in association with the Rotary Club of Organ Donation International, took place at Anand Garden in Sewri, Mumbai. The event brought together Rotarians and residents to tackle one of India’s most pressing healthcare challenges.
Rotarian Chhavi Garg, President of the Rotary Club of Bombay Harbour View, welcomed the distinguished speaker, while Rotarian Ruby Agarwal, Inspire Secretary, provided attendees with comprehensive information about the Rotary Club of Organ Donation International and its mission.
During his address, Rotarian Lal Goel presented sobering statistics comparing organ donation rates between India and the United Kingdom. His presentation underscored the significant gap in organ donation participation between Indian citizens and their counterparts in Western nations, particularly the UK.
“The disparity in organ donation rates reflects a critical need for cultural and mindset transformation in our country,” Goel explained, expressing concern about the reluctance of Indians to engage in organ donation programs that have proven successful in other parts of the world.
Program Reaches a Wider Audience
The event was live-streamed on GYAN Channel, extending its reach beyond the immediate audience of Rotarians and residents from Ashok Garden Building.
Rotarian Lal Goel acknowledged the coordination efforts of Past President Rotarian Anupama Jalan from the Rotary Club of Bombay Queen City, whose support made the program possible. In a ceremonial gesture marking the collaboration between clubs, he presented the Rotary Club flag to President Chhavi Garg.
Call to Action for Life-Saving Change
The program reinforced the urgent need for increased awareness and participation in organ donation within India. Through education, community engagement, and gradual shifts in mindset, organisations like the Rotary Club of Organ Donation International continue to work towards bridging the gap between organ availability and the thousands of patients waiting for life-saving transplants.