On 25 July 2023, The anatomy department at King George's Medical University honored families whose members donated their bodies to the purpose of medical education. "Until now, the anatomy department has received 400 bodies, and 4,000 people have pledged their bodies," said Dr Punita Manik, HoD, anatomy. Several bodies have been used for medical education, and some are continuing in use by the department and will be utilised in future batches. Approximately 25-30 bodies are donated to the department each year. The names of these benefactors were called out at the 'Dadhichi Samman Samaroh,' with around 200 people being honored.
Several organizations were also honored during the ceremony for their contributions to body donation. Aastha Old Age Home received the honor certificate for its contribution to society.
Aastha Geriatric Center is a charitable organization established in 2006, registered under section 80G of the Income Tax Act 1961. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, recognized Aastha as the greatest organization in India providing services to the elderly and for raising awareness. Aastha - Centre for Geriatric Medicine, Palliative Care Hospital & Hospice was one of the organizations recognized for raising awareness about body donation and encouraging more people to participate in this noble cause.
The organization provides care for old age people in India who are fragile, terminally ill, or suffering from illnesses such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, cancer, psychiatric ailments, or those who have various old age difficulties.
Dr. Abhishek Shukla is the Founder and Director of the Aastha Centre for Geriatric Medicine, Palliative Care Hospital, Hospice, and Social Welfare Society, a charitable organization in Lucknow. He is MD (Gold Medalist), MAAFP (USA), trained in Critical Care Medicine (SGPGI Lucknow) and certified Specialist Palliative Medicine Cardiff, UK.
Dr Shukla is the secretary-general, Association of International Doctors. For his noble work, he is felicitated with multiple awards and recognitions including national award by President in 2016 and Prime minister Narendra Modi's Appreciation letters in 2017. Dr Shukla was nominated to State council for senior citizens as a member. The 16 member council set up by the social welfare department in August 2022.
