500 residents of Mucherla in Telangana’s Hanumakonda district have all pledged to donate their eyes after death. Over the past few years, around 70 villagers have donated their eyes. The village’s dedication was recently acknowledged when it received the ‘excellence in eye donation’ award from the governor. India has one of the poorest organ donation rates in the world, with less than one per million people donating organs per million population. The success of the village’s organ donation initiative has sparked a ripple effect in neighbouring villages, with at least 20 individuals pledging to donate eyes to the LV Prasad Eye Institute after their passing. \”Our community’s commitment has created a model of organ donation that continues to grow and inspire change,\” said B Sujatha, a villager from the village. The movement began several years ago when a few villagers took the first steps by pledging their eyes, and it quickly gained momentum. Many families actively participate in the cause, with many expressing how the decision has brought them closer, reinforcing the idea that even in death, one can continue to give, and live. It has also set up a well-organised system, keeping detailed records of those who have pledged to donations, and coordinating with hospitals to ensure a prompt response when needed. \”This achievement proves that when a community comes together with a shared purpose, we can make a meaningful difference,\” she told TOI.
