Daijiworld Media Network- Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Apr 1: In a major boost to the state’s healthcare infrastructure, Karnataka is set to establish South India’s first government organ transplant and retrieval centre at Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru. The announcement was made by Minister for medical education, skill development livelihood, Sharan Prakash Patil.

The state government has sanctioned Rs 1 cr for the development of the facility, aimed at enhancing organ retrieval and transplant services. Minister Patil stated that steps are also being taken to construct a helipad at Victoria Hospital to ensure swift and efficient transportation of organs.

“The new centre will operate as a dedicated unit for retrieving organs from deceased donors, equipped with advanced ICU facilities, operation theatres, laboratories, and diagnostic capabilities,” Minister Patil explained.

The project, expected to become functional within the next four to six months, coincides with the 125th anniversary of Victoria Hospital—one of South India’s largest medical institutions. The hospital already hosts specialized facilities, including the Institute of gastroenterology and urology transplantation, the Regional Institute of ophthalmology at Minto Hospital, a Trauma and Emergency Care Centre, and a Skin Bank.

Dr Deepak, Medical Superintendent of Victoria Hospital, highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating, “Dedicated staff, ICUs, and designated beds will be part of the centre. Once a family consents to organ donation, patients will be transferred to the new facility for further procedures. This initiative will particularly benefit economically-disadvantaged patients.”

The government’s move aims to streamline the organ donation process by ensuring safe procedures, family counselling, and adherence to legal frameworks. Authorities believe the initiative will greatly benefit underprivileged patients and strengthen the state’s organ donation network.