Arunachal CM launches expanded organ transplant scheme, promises up to Rs 20 lakh support

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 22, 2025

In a major push toward accessible and life-saving healthcare, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu chaired the first governing body meeting of the newly formed Chief Minister’s Organ Transplant Society in Itanagar on Tuesday. The meeting marked the formal launch of the Chief Minister’s Organ Transplant Scheme (CMOTS) — a broadened version of the earlier Chief Minister’s Renal Replacement Scheme (CMRRS).

The expanded scheme will now provide financial assistance for liver and bone marrow transplants, in addition to kidney transplants. Patients will be eligible for up to Rs 10 lakh for kidney transplants, Rs 15 lakh for bone marrow transplants, and Rs 20 lakh for liver transplants.

The earlier CMRRS had successfully facilitated over 200 kidney transplants across the state since its inception seven years ago. CMOTS builds on that foundation, extending critical support to more patients in need of complex procedures.

Addressing the meeting, Khandu called for a shift in focus from reactive treatment to preventive healthcare. “Treatment alone isn’t enough. Real progress is when people don’t fall sick in the first place,” he said. “We need to invest in awareness, education, and lifestyle change — because a healthy society begins at home, in our communities,” Khandu said.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the scheme is not just about funding transplants but is part of a broader vision to improve overall health outcomes and promote long-term wellbeing in the state.

With CMOTS, the Arunachal Pradesh government aims to ensure that life-saving transplants are not restricted by income or geography.