Indian Army’s free eye camp restores vision to 400 in remote Kashmir
A four-day medical camp in Jammu and Kashmir has restored sight to over 400 people through free eye surgeries. Operation Drishti, organized by the Indian Army’s Northern Command, screened more than 2,000 residents from remote villages. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh visited the camp and praised the army’s efforts in serving local communities.
The initiative was launched by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in 2023 to improve border security and support civilian welfare. This year’s camp, held in collaboration with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, focused on treating cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal diseases.
Brigadier SK Mishra, a leading ophthalmic surgeon, headed the medical team. Among the beneficiaries was 72-year-old Surinder Singh from Poonch, who regained his sight after years of blindness. Another patient, 96-year-old Rajkumari Devi, could see clearly again following surgery.
The camp drew attendees from Udhampur, Doda, Rajouri, Poonch, Kishtwar, and Ramban. Abdullah Shafeeq, a 56-year-old retired soldier, played a key role in coordinating the specialized eye care services. The closing ceremony was addressed virtually by Rajnath Singh, Chief of Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi, and LG Manoj Sinha.
Operation Drishti provided critical medical aid to underserved regions while reinforcing the army’s commitment to public service. Over 400 patients left with restored sight, and the initiative highlighted the army’s dual role in security and humanitarian work.
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