New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to 10-month-old Alin Sherin Abraham from Kerala, describing her as an inspiration and highlighting the growing awareness around organ donation in the country.

Speaking during the 131st episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Mr Modi expressed his condolences to the infant’s family and acknowledged the depth of their loss.

“There is no greater sorrow for any parent than losing one’s own child. The pain of losing a very young child is deeper. Just a few days ago, we lost Aalin Sherin Abraham, a little innocent girl from Kerala,” he said. “Awareness regarding organ donation is increasing… Medical research is also getting a boost… There are many people like Aalin who have given another life to someone by organ donation.”

ALSO READ | Toddler’s death in Kerala: Netizens urge stricter car seat rules as tragedy sparks political optics

Alin suffered brain death following a road accident on 5 February at Pallam Borma junction in Pathanamthitta district, when a car travelling in the opposite direction collided with her family’s vehicle. She sustained severe injuries, while her mother and grandparents were also critically hurt.

After receiving initial treatment in Changanassery and Tiruvalla, she was shifted to Kochi, where she was declared brain-dead on 13 February. Her parents, Arun Abraham and Sherin Ann John, subsequently consented to donate her organs.

The infant’s liver, two kidneys, heart valve and corneas were donated, saving or improving the lives of five recipients. A six-month-old baby undergoing treatment received her liver, becoming the youngest in the state to undergo a posthumous liver transplant. Her kidneys were allocated to another child, while the heart valve and corneas were transplanted to patients in need.

ALSO READ | ‘Monumental act of compassion’: Pinarayi Vijayan hails Kerala baby Aalin who gave life to five

The Kerala Police accorded Alin a Guard of Honour, recognising her as the state’s youngest organ donor. Kerala Health Minister Veen George described the family’s decision as “an active expression of love and care for humanity”, adding that it serves as a model for others.