Chandigarh, September 9, 2024: In a remarkable gesture of solidarity and social responsibility, General (Retd.) V. P. Malik (PVSM, AVSM), former Army Chief (1997-2000 ) and a distinguished leader of the Kargil War, pledged to donate his organs during an organ donation awareness camp organized by ROTTO North at PGIMER Chandigarh. This significant event took place on the final day of the nationwide public awareness campaign, "World Physiotherapy Month" 2024, during a massive blood donation camp under Mission "Jeevan Rekha," dedicated to the silver jubilee of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

General Malik, the chief guest at the event, took the pledge for organ donation, emphasizing the importance of this noble cause. Recalling the valor and courage of the Indian soldiers during the Kargil War, he expressed how this gesture of pledging his organs is an extension of his commitment to serve the nation. He urged everyone to come forward and support the cause of organ donation, thereby giving the gift of life to those in need.

Speaking about his motivation, General Malik stated, "I have always believed in serving my nation in every possible way. Pledging my organs is a way to continue this service even after my lifetime. It brings me immense satisfaction and peace to know that I can help save lives even after I am gone. I encourage every citizen to consider organ donation as an act of ultimate kindness and compassion."

The event, organized by Navya Bharat Foundation (NBF) and the Student Association of Physical Therapy (SAPT) in collaboration with Khel Bharti Chandigarh, saw an overwhelming response from the public. The presence of General Malik added immense value and inspiration to the campaign, motivating many to consider organ donation.

Prof. Suchet Sachdev and Prof. Harikrishan from the Department of Transfusion Medicine, Prof. Himanshu Bhayana from Orthopedics, and Dr. Anirudh Uniyal, National President and Founder of Navya Bharat Foundation (NBF) and Physiotherapist of PGIMER Chandigarh, along with many doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, students, and staff of PGIMER, were present at the camp.

The event was a grand success, reflecting a shared commitment to promoting organ donation and encouraging citizens to contribute to this life-saving cause. ROTTO North expressed gratitude to General Malik for his noble gesture and urged more people to follow in his footsteps.