Linked with SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being | SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – In a remarkable step towards eliminating preventable blindness and promoting health equity, Janmitra Nyas, in collaboration with People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), RJ Shankara Eye Hospital, Shiv Nadar Foundation, and supported by the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, organized a free eye screening and cataract surgery camp for underprivileged and torture-affected individuals in the village of Kathirav, Baragaon Block.
This initiative follows the inauguration of RJ Shankara Eye Hospital by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, a facility dedicated to delivering world-class ophthalmological services, especially to the underserved. The hospital embodies the Prime Minister’s vision of Accessible Healthcare for All, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Reaching the Unseen – Impact on the Ground
Held on Tuesday, the free eye camp drew 184 beneficiaries, including survivors of torture and economically marginalized individuals. Among them, 44 cataract patients were identified for free surgery, lens implantation, and post-operative care, all facilitated at RJ Shankara Eye Hospital. Post-surgery, the patients were safely transported back to their village by hospital-provided transportation, ensuring care and dignity at every step.
RJ Shankara Eye Hospital’s expert team, led by Yugal Chandra, with ophthalmologists Sonali and Jayendra, and assistants Nancy, Anjali, Satish, and Shyama, ensured that every patient received comprehensive care. Shruti Nagvanshi, Managing Trustee of Janmitra Nyas, emphasized that such camps will continue in the future to serve those most in need, providing them relief from curable blindness and contributing to their overall well-being.
Blindness Elimination: A Step Toward SDGs
Preventable blindness, especially cataract-related, continues to impact millions, hindering economic productivity and quality of life. This initiative is a powerful stride toward the WHO-led global initiative “Vision 2020: The Right to Sight”, while also echoing the UN’s call for Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
By ensuring access to free eye care for torture victims and vulnerable populations, the project highlights the intersection of health, human rights, and development. These camps not only restore sight but also restore dignity, aiding in the rehabilitation of survivors and their reintegration into society.
Community Participation and Media Coverage
The success of the camp owes much to the grassroots support of volunteers including Pradeep Singh, Mangla Rajbhar, Ajitesh, Arvind, Mahiwal, Sandeep, Dinesh, Deepa, Priya, and Sanjay. Their efforts ensured smooth operations and compassionate care.
This initiative received widespread recognition, with 12 offline newspapers and 5 online news platforms highlighting the impact and the humanitarian collaboration. Mr. Vallabhacharya Pandey of ASHA Trust was especially lauded for his unwavering support in making this initiative a success.
A Vision for the Future
Janmitra Nyas and its partners remain committed to ensuring that every individual, regardless of socio-economic status, has the right to sight and quality healthcare. By focusing on the most marginalized, including torture survivors, this initiative is a testament to inclusive development and grassroots empowerment.
As the RJ Shankara Eye Hospital continues its noble mission, it is not just treating eyes—it is illuminating lives, one vision at a time.
