The Indian Army successfully conducted its inaugural mega eye surgical camp along the Line of Control (LoC), restoring vision to 220 individuals. This initiative was realised under Operation Drishti, in a setting marked by threats of shelling. The camp took place in Tangdhar, Jammu and Kashmir, where surgeons operated in an underground theatre, ensuring the safety and well-being of both patients and medical personnel.

Over a span of two days, the team of Armed Forces Medical Services predominantly performed cataract surgeries, alongside several retinal procedures and minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries. Given the precarious nature of the region, particularly Karnah (Kupwara), where the camp was held, the medical team operated under constant threat, yet succeeded in providing critical care.

Brigadier Sanjay Kumar Mishra, the Head of Ophthalmology at the Army Hospital in Delhi Cantonment, led the surgical team. They transported advanced surgical equipment through challenging mountainous terrain, showcasing the commitment and ingenuity of the personnel involved. Despite the risks, the operation theatre’s underground location facilitated delicate procedures safely.

Impact on Local Communities

The camp attracted patients from numerous localities, including Khawarpora, Tangdar, Tadd, Bagbela, and Yangdar. The outreach included information broadcast through Radio Rooh-e-Karnah, guiding individuals to seek necessary treatment. Upon arrival, each patient was closely monitored throughout their recovery process.

Personal stories emerged from the surgeries, highlighting the profound impact of restored sight. Ghulam Rabani, an 87-year-old resident, was able to reunite with family members he had not seen clearly for years. His emotional response after surgery reflected the emotional significance of the camp. Similarly, several patients described the feelings of independence and relief after regaining their vision, enabling them to participate more actively in family life and community engagements.

Among the patients was 66-year-old Md Younis, who expressed a deep desire to return to work after years of dependency caused by failing eyesight. His successful surgery restored his vision, allowing him to view his surroundings anew. Hamida Begum, aged 55, also shared her relief at regaining the ability to identify her family and ensure the safety of her children during troubling times.

Looking Ahead: Future Camps and Community Trust

Operation Drishti, envisioned by Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, has achieved significant milestones, having screened over 1.5 lakh individuals and performed more than 3,500 surgeries across ten locations to date. The initiative aims to enhance health services in remote areas along the LoC, promoting trust between the Army and border communities.

During the camp, the Chief of the Army Staff, General Dhiraj Seth, paid a visit to interact with patients, further demonstrating the Army’s commitment to community welfare. His presence, alongside that of the Director-General of Armed Forces Medical Services, Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja, reaffirmed the dedication of the medical teams involved.

The 11th eye surgical camp in the series is scheduled to take place in Srinagar from 27 to 29 September 2026, with the closing ceremony scheduled for 30 September 2026, which will be attended by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Manoj Sinha. This ongoing effort reflects a focused approach to healthcare accessibility in previously underserved regions.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share