Currently, there are approximately 15 million “vision-challenged” individuals in India, with a staggering 80% (roughly 12 million) experiencing "Avoidable or Correctable Blindness." These cases are treatable through appropriate interventions. Within the category of "Avoidable Blindness," a substantial 63% of patients suffer from Cataract, predominantly affecting economically disadvantaged individuals in rural areas. Recognizing Cataract as a primary cause of blindness, the surgical removal and implantation of an Intra-Ocular Lens represent effective measures to restore sight, significantly reducing the prevalence of "Avoidable Blindness." These surgeries conducted at The Poona Blind Men Association's H.V. Desai Eye Hospital, Pune renowned for its "free of cost" surgeries for the underprivileged. The fixed prices for these surgeries are negotiated at Rs.3,500 per Cataract surgery. These costs cover pre-operative tests, post-operative care, follow-up visits, transportation to and fro, hospital stay, one month free medicines, black goggle and meals for the patients. Importantly, the entire expense is covered by grant donations, ensuring that beneficiaries do not bear any financial burden for their treatment. We believe that through these concerted efforts, we can significantly contribute to the reduction of "Avoidable Blindness" and improve the quality of life for those in need. A total of 2,550 cataract surgeries have been performed under this grant. In addition, we received approval from the Rotary Grant Regional Center to conduct an additional 33 surgeries, which were successfully completed after receiving the necessary authorization. As a result, a total of 2,583 cataract surgeries have been performed, exceeding the initial goal of 2,550 surgeries under this grant.
Start Date | 01-07-2024 |
End Date | 01-10-2024 |
Project Cost | 9039097 |
Rotary Volunteer Hours | 500 |
No of direct Beneficiaries | 2583 |
Partner Clubs | RC Morrisville-Yardley Area, Rotary Club of Pune Cantonment, Dist.3131 |
Non Rotary Partners | Sankara Eye Foundation, USA |
Project Category | Disease Prevention and Treatment, District Thrust Area |