42-Day Leave for Central Employees Donating Organs

Why in the news?

The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) announced a policy granting 42 days of special leave for central government employees donating organs, encouraging organ donation and supporting donors’ recovery and well-being.

42-Day Leave for Central Employees Donating Organs

Central Government Employees Granted Leave for Organ Donation:

  • The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) announced a special provision granting 42 days of casual leave for central government employees who donate organs.
  • This step aims to promote organ donation, acknowledge donors’ efforts, and ensure sufficient recovery time.

Role of NOTTO in Organ Donation

  • NOTTO, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is responsible for implementing the National Organ Transplant Program (NOTP).
  • Established under the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994, it ensures systematic organ procurement and distribution across India.
  • Maintains a national registry of donors and recipients, streamlining the organ transplant process.

Key Divisions and Activities

  • National Human Organ and Tissue Removal and Storage Network:
    • Coordinates organ and tissue procurement at the national level, per the Transplantation of Human Organs (Amendment) Act, 2011.
  • National Biomaterial Centre (National Tissue Bank):
    • Addresses gaps in tissue availability and ensures quality through screening, preservation, and distribution.
  • Other activities include donor screening, tissue storage, laboratory testing, sterilization, and maintaining records.
  • Develops guidelines, training programs, and promotes awareness initiatives.

About National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO):

  • What it is: National-level organization under the Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
  • Headquarters: Located at Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi.
  • Aim:
  • Coordinate, regulate, and promote organ and tissue donation in India.
  • Ensure safe and efficient allocation of organs and tissues.
  • Functions:
  • Policy Formation: Develop guidelines and protocols for transplantation.
  • Coordination: Oversee organ procurement, allocation, and distribution.
  • Registry Maintenance: Maintain a national organ donation registry.
  • Awareness: Conduct public campaigns to promote organ donation.
  • Training: Train healthcare professionals and advise on legal aspects.
  • Monitoring: Track transplantation activities and maintain data.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times