MOHAN Foundation in collaboration with NATCO organized an online masterclass titled “DCD in Practice: When and How It Can Happen’’ – Demystifying Donation After Circulatory Death on March 28, 2026, for NATCO members and MOHAN Foundation team members.

Ms. Pallavi Kumar, Executive Director of MOHAN Foundation NCR, introduced Dr. Avnish Seth, Country Head of Manipal Organ Sharing & Transplant (MOST), to the participants.

The masterclass aimed to enable participants to understand when DCD can be considered, recognize clinical scenarios that lend themselves to DCD, appreciate practical pathways within the existing system, and build confidence in identifying and facilitating donation opportunities.

Dr. Avnish Seth highlighted that India’s deceased organ donation rates remain significantly lower than global figures. He emphasized the crucial role of transplant coordinators in DCD organ donation and shared insights on the first DCD-NRP in India. He also elaborated on the stages of expertise and the ethical considerations associated with DCD.

Ms. Sukhwinder, a transplant coordinator, explained her role and shared the challenges she faces while counselling families for organ donation. She mentioned that coordinators carefully explain all aspects of organ donation to the families, provide emotional support, and respect their reactions and decision-making process. She also highlighted the importance of timely decision-making, as delays can affect the viability of organs. Therefore, while supporting the families, coordinators also remain mindful of the time involved in the process, as it is a critical factor in successful organ donation.

The masterclass was highly engaging and informative, with participants actively raising several questions, including the availability of NRP machines in India, their presence in major cities, the cost implications of transplant surgery using NRP, and the requirement of ECMO machines for DCD support. Dr. Avnish Seth responded to all queries in detail, and the session concluded with his closing remarks.

Close to 100 participants attended the session, which provided valuable guidance on Donation after Circulatory Death.