Zamindar Microsurgical Eye Centre: Community Eye Care Initiative 

Our Vision

To eliminate needless blindness with collaboration, capacity building & leadership.

Our Mission

Educating the community around us about avoidable blindness, conduct eye screening camps and doing comprehensive eye checkups at our community centres.

“The eye is the window to the soul, and good vision is key to a full and rich life”

A Heartfelt Commitment to Affordable and Accessible Eye Care

Since 1997, the Zamindar Microsurgical Eye Centre has poured its heart into serving those in need, offering free OPD services every Thursday. To expand our reach and assist more people, we have transformed our Jai Bharat Nagar Centre into a Community Eye Care Centre on May 1, 2024.

This move also results in extended working hours from Monday to Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., enabling us to impact many more lives. This growth reflects our commitment to fighting preventable blindness and visual impairment. We strongly believe that every individual, regardless of their socio-economic background, should have access to high-quality, low-cost eye care.

Why Do We Need a Community Eye Care Centre?

Community Eye Care Centres are beacons of hope, dedicated to enhancing eye health and preventing visual impairment in local communities. Their impact is significant and resonates across multiple avenues:

1. Accessibility and Affordability: These centres cater to all communities, thus ensuring essential eye care services. The low-cost or free services provided by them make sure that no one is left in the dark due to financial limitations.

2. Comprehensive Eye Exams: Thorough and regular eye exams help catch and treat conditions early, preventing them from turning into severe issues and giving people the gift of clear sight.

3. Treatment and Surgery: Community Eye Care Centres are always on standby to address a wide range of eye conditions, from common refractive errors like myopia and hyperopia to more serious diseases such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). They also offer surgical interventions, restoring sight and hope to those in need.

4. Awareness and Education: These centres take it upon themselves to educate the masses about the importance of eye health. Essential know-how is provided thus empowering individuals to take proactive steps in protecting their vision and seeking timely care.

5. Early Detection and Prevention: With a focus on early detection, Community Eye Care Centres play a vital role in preventing the progression of debilitating eye diseases. By catching conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy early, they offer a chance for effective management and a brighter future.1

Eye Health in India: A Focus on Major Eye Conditions and Blindness

India faces significant challenges in eye health, with millions affected by various eye conditions. Research and surveys provide critical insights into the prevalence and impact of these conditions.

1. Cataract: Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in India, accounting for about 66.2% of blindness cases. A study in 2023 revealed that the prevalence of cataracts in individuals aged 50 and above was 62.6%. This condition, characterized by clouding of the lens, severely impairs vision and requires surgical intervention for restoration of sight.

2. Refractive Errors: Refractive errors, including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, are the second leading cause of visual impairment in India. They affect approximately 53.1% of the population. Uncorrected refractive errors are a major issue, especially among children and the working-age population, impacting educational and economic productivity. 

3. Glaucoma: Glaucoma, known as the “silent thief of sight,” is a significant cause of irreversible blindness. Studies indicate that it affects about 11.2 million people in India, with a prevalence rate of approximately 3.54% in individuals aged 40 and above. Many cases remain undiagnosed due to the lack of symptoms in the early stages. 

4. Diabetic Retinopathy: With the rise of diabetes in India, diabetic retinopathy is becoming increasingly prevalent. Approximately 18% of individuals with diabetes in India suffer from this condition, which can lead to blindness if not managed properly. Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection and treatment.

5. Corneal Opacity: Corneal opacity, resulting from infections, injuries, or nutritional deficiencies, accounts for about 7.1% of blindness cases in India. The condition, which involves scarring or clouding of the cornea, can be prevented through improved eye care and health practices.

6. Posterior Segment Disorders: Posterior segment disorders, including conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinal detachment, contribute to visual impairment and blindness. AMD affects around 1.1% of the population aged 60 and above. The prevalence of posterior segment disorders highlights the need for specialised eye care services.

7. Prevalence of Blindness: According to the National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey (2015-2019), the prevalence of blindness in India is 0.36% among those aged 50 and above. The survey also noted a reduction in blindness prevalence from 1.1% in the previous decade, demonstrating progress but also indicating ongoing challenges. 

Spread the Word: Empower Your Community with Essential Eye Care

The Community Eye Care Centre represents a quantum leap in access to affordable and complete eye care. With extended services and hours of operation, this centre is bound to have a significant impact on the prevention and cure of visual impairment within the community.

We encourage you to spread the word about this invaluable resource. Share this information with your friends, family, and community to ensure that those in need can benefit from the services offered.

How can you support us?

Join us in making a difference. Your contribution of just ₹6,000 can cover the cost of a life-changing cataract surgery for one eye. Be a part of our mission to restore vision and improve lives.