Lal Goel, a distinguished businessman turned humanitarian, has founded the Rotary Club of Organ Donation International to create widespread awareness about organ donation. In an interview with Sportsavour, he states that sports events help to inspire and advocate the urgent need for organ donors.
Sports play a significant role in public awareness and advocacy….
Lal Goel: Sports have a remarkable ability to inspire, heal, and connect people. This is a power which is even more meaningful for organ donors and recipients. Participating in any physical activity plays a vital role in their physical, emotional, and social recovery. Beyond the physical benefits, sports help to rebuild confidence and give a sense of independence and joy.
Though organ donation remains one of the most powerful ways to save lives, awareness and understanding about it are still limited in many parts of India.
Sports events help in creating awareness….
Lal Goel: Events such as Marathons, Walkathons, and Transplant Games help to break myths. They also encourage organ donor registration and demonstrate the transformative impact of transplantation in a tangible, inspiring way.
The Grand Walkathon 2025 in Indore, scheduled on 14th December, will definitely play a crucial role in bringing the message directly to the community in a highly visible and engaging manner.
I am very hopeful that this Walkathon will spark curiosity and open conversations about organ donation in Indore. Public events like this also attract media attention, amplifying the message far beyond the streets of Indore. This will also inspire other cities to take similar steps.
Creating awareness about organ donation is extremely important in India….
Lal Goel: There is a severe shortage of donors in India despite having one of the world’s largest populations. Thousands of people die each year while waiting for life-saving organs simply because not enough citizens are informed, registered, or willing to donate.
As per the data of the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO), in 2024, India recorded only 18,900 organ transplants out of 85,000 (approx) patients in the national waiting list.
Several challenges for organ donation in India…
Lal Goel: One of the biggest challenges is the lack of understanding about organ donation. Many people are unaware that one donor can save up to eight lives and heal many more through tissue donation. Misconceptions, social stigma, and cultural or religious myths create fear and hesitation for donating organs.
Another major issue is the low rate of deceased organ donation, as families refuse to give consent even when donation is possible. Increased awareness helps families understand the process, the safety, and the importance of organ donation.
Need for a collective effort….
Lal Goel: In 2016, after I survived a massive heart attack, I thought of dedicating my life to a good cause. I studied and researched, and found that organ donation is a space where there is a huge vacuum.
I created a foundation known as the Organ Donation Foundation of India. I collaborated with a few people and started working. While I was on a mission to create awareness about organ donation, we were hit by COVID.
During that time, I met several distinguished members of our society through an online programme on a television channel and talked with them about health and fitness. Then, I more clearly understood how much India lags in organ donation.
After COVID, I decided to take my voice to the government. I founded the Rotary Club of Organ Donation International in 2023. Through this organisation, I was successful in reaching the government with facts and figures about the low rate of organ donation in India and the need for a rise in the medical cover for transplantation in government hospitals.
Role of Rotary Club of Organ Donation International
Lal Goel: In a country where millions suffer from organ failure, raising awareness is not just important—it is urgent.
We mainly organise awareness campaigns. When people understand how organ allocation works, how donor organs are matched, and how transparent the process is, they are more likely to register as donors. This trust is essential for increasing donor numbers.
Furthermore, creating awareness fosters a culture of compassion and social responsibility. Public discussions, events, and educational programs inspire people to see donation as a noble act that gives others a second chance at life.
It holds the power to transform lives, reduce preventable deaths, and create a healthier, more empathetic society.
