Chandigarh 10-02-2024, Dr. Parul Gupta, Transplant Coordinator at PGIMER Chandigarh, has been bestowed with the prestigious Sushruta Award 2024 in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the field of organ donation. The award was presented by Hon'ble Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, at a televised health conclave organized by Medically Speaking.
The award ceremony, held on February 8th, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, celebrated the outstanding achievements of professionals in healthcare. Dr. Gupta's remarkable dedication and exemplary work in facilitating over 150 organ and tissue donations at PGIMER Chandigarh earned her this esteemed honor.
As a Transplant Coordinator at PGIMER Chandigarh since 2019, Dr. Gupta has played an integral role in the success of the institute's deceased organ donation program. Her expertise and commitment have been instrumental in driving some of the most successful organ donation initiatives within a public sector hospital.
During the conclave, Dr. Gupta participated in a panel discussion on the topic "Donate Organs & Save Lives," shedding light on the pivotal role of transplant coordinators in deceased organ donation. She emphasized the importance of approaching grieving potential donor families with compassion and sensitivity, helping them navigate the process of organ donation during a difficult time.
 Dr. Gupta's contributions extend beyond routine organ donation procedures. She has been actively involved in pioneering initiatives such as organ donation after cardiac death (DCD) and organ donation in very young children, including a 39-day-old infant, which was mentiond by Honble Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, in his 99th episode of “Mann Ki Baat”. These procedures require meticulous planning, coordination, and adherence to stringent protocols. Dr. Gupta's involvement in such initiatives has not only expanded the scope of organ donation but also maximized opportunities to save lives.
 
One of the most remarkable achievements of Dr. Gupta's career was the successful organ donation of a child aged just 70 hours, conducted at PGIMER Chandigarh in February 2020. Undertaking organ donations in infants at such a tender age presents unique challenges, demanding compassion, sensitivity, and ethical considerations at every step of the process. Dr. Gupta has demonstrated unwavering support and guidance for the grieving families involved, ensuring their experience during this delicate time is handled with the utmost respect and care.
 In addition to her impactful work on the ground, Dr. Gupta actively contributes to research endeavors exploring innovative approaches to organ donation and transplantation. Her participation in organizing national and international conferences has fostered collaboration among experts, stakeholders, and policymakers, facilitating the exchange of ideas and best practices in the field of deceased organ donation.
 The Sushruta Award is a well-deserved recognition of Dr. Parul Gupta's tireless dedication and significant contributions to the field of organ donation. Her work continues to make a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals and their families, reaffirming our commitment to the noble cause of saving lives through organ transplantation