Chandigarh, 17 September 2025:The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, today presided over a solemn and inspiring function organized by the Health Department, U.T. Chandigarh, at Govt. Multi-Speciality Hospital, Sector-16. The occasion marked three important initiatives – the launch of Elderly Care Ambulance Services, the felicitation of organ donor families, and the appreciation of Nikshay Mitras who are supporting TB patients.

In his address, Shri Kataria described organ donation as one of the most difficult yet noblest acts of humanity. “Donating vital organs such as the liver, kidney, and heart is a deeply challenging task for families. But in doing so, they give others the gift of life. Organ donation is not merely a medical act, it is a sacred service to humanity,” he remarked. He also acknowledged that organ donation remains a challenging mission in India due to emotional and cultural barriers, and urged society to transform it into a people’s movement.

The Governor paid heartfelt tribute to the five families who donated the organs of their loved ones, calling their sacrifice a “beacon of inspiration for generations.” He also recalled the extraordinary example of a family from Amritsar, who donated the organs of their 39-day-old infant daughter, an act of courage earlier praised by the Prime Minister in his Mann Ki Baat.

On this occasion, Shri Kataria also felicitated Nikshay Mitras—individuals and groups who support TB patients. Notably, the Governor himself has adopted 50 TB patients as Nikshay Mitras, out of which five were specially felicitated today for their efforts. He praised their commitment to ensuring that TB patients recover not only with treatment but also with dignity.

The Governor further flagged off the newly launched Elderly Care Ambulance Services, a special initiative to provide doorstep medical support to senior citizens above 80 years of age, especially those who are bedridden or unable to reach hospitals. He said this service reflects the Administration’s resolve to deliver inclusive and compassionate healthcare.

Joining the nation in celebrations, Shri Kataria also extended greetings on the 75th birthday of the Prime Minister. He said the entire country is celebrating the day with pride, noting that in the last 11 years, India’s respect and recognition have risen across the world. “From every perspective—be it economic progress, national security, women empowerment, or nutrition programs like Poshan Abhiyaan—India has scaled new heights under his leadership. Today, campaigns like Shakti Nari Shakti Bharat and Poshan Maah reflect the vision of a stronger, healthier nation,” he added.

Concluding his address, Shri Kataria said, “The noble sacrifice of donor families, the compassionate support of Nikshay Mitras, and the care extended to our elderly citizens all remind us that service to humanity is service to God. Let us take a pledge to make organ donation a mass movement and strengthen India’s role as a global leader in this noble cause.”

The event ended with the presentation of certificates to organ donor families and Nikshay Mitras, followed by the flagging-off of the Elderly Care Ambulances by the Governor.

Chief Secretary Chandigarh Sh Rajeev Verma, Secretary Health Sh Ajay Chagti, Deputy Commissioner Chandigarh
Sh Nishant Kumar Yadav, Director Health Dr. Suman Singh and other officers of Health Department were Present during the event.