On March 19, 2024, Mr. Gabriel Pereira, representing the MOHAN Foundation, addressed the attendees of the Made in Saligao Community Market in Saligao, Bardez, Goa, as part of the Senior Citizen Day celebration.

 

This community initiative fosters a vibrant market atmosphere in Saligao, a picturesque village in Bardez, Goa. Visitors are encouraged to explore, browse, engage with local artisans, and make purchases. Typically, the market operates on Tuesday evenings, from 4:30 to 8:00 pm during the fair-weather season, aiming to showcase local products and talents while eliminating intermediaries.

 

Gabriel commenced the session by introducing himself and outlining the mission of the MOHAN Foundation. He shared his personal motivation for joining the foundation and advocating for its cause.

 

During his presentation, Gabriel emphasized the significance of organ donation, elucidating the types of organs eligible for donation, including those viable from both living and brain-dead donors, and clarifying the concept of brain stem death.

 

Furthermore, he detailed the various avenues for organ donation pledges, showcasing the QR code and Form 2 of the driving license, wherein ticking a designated box indicates the holder's intent to be an organ donor. However, Gabriel underscored the paramount importance of informing one's family or next-of-kin about this decision, given India's opt-in policy, which mandates consent from family members or next-of-kin for organ donation to proceed.

 

As a result of the session, eleven individuals pledged to donate their organs, and approximately 80 informational flyers addressing frequently asked questions were distributed.

 

Ms. Emera Remedios E. Fernandes, the event host, conveyed her appreciation to Gabriel and the MOHAN Foundation for their efforts in raising awareness about organ donation.