###Alakh Nayan Mandir Eye Institute Marks World Sight Day

Udaipur,  In observance of World Sight Day, Alakh Nayan Mandir Eye Institute, Udaipur, organized a two-day free eye health check-up camp for city auto drivers at multiple locations, including Kachchi Basti opposite the Railway Station, Beeda, and near Hotel Venkatesh. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about the importance of eye care and provide essential health services to a segment of society often exposed to demanding and long hours of work.

The camp was inaugurated in the presence of District President Firdous Ahmed and representatives of the Ekta Auto Union, highlighting the collaborative effort between local authorities and health organizations. During the camp, a team of expert ophthalmologists and optometrists conducted thorough eye examinations for the drivers and provided guidance on preventive measures, eye hygiene, and the early detection of common ocular conditions.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. L.S. Jhala, Medical Director of Alakh Nayan Mandir Eye Institute, emphasized the critical role of regular eye examinations in preventing vision loss. “Many eye diseases do not show symptoms until advanced stages, making routine check-ups essential. Timely diagnosis and intervention can prevent avoidable blindness and improve quality of life,” he stated.

Dr. Laxmi Jhala, Managing Trustee, and Mrs. Meenakshi Chundawat, Executive Trustee, also addressed the gathering, urging the participants to take proactive steps for their eye health. They noted that World Sight Day serves as a global reminder to focus on vision care, encouraging communities to adopt practices that maintain healthy eyesight. They highlighted that the initiative particularly benefits auto drivers, whose occupation involves long exposure to sunlight, road dust, and night-time driving, all of which can contribute to vision impairment if not monitored regularly.

The camp saw a significant turnout, with a large number of auto drivers availing themselves of the free services. Many participants expressed appreciation for the Institute’s efforts, noting that such programs not only help detect underlying eye problems early but also provide valuable education on maintaining eye health.

World Sight Day, observed annually on the second Thursday of October by the World Health Organization (WHO) and global partners, aims to raise awareness about preventable blindness and visual impairment. According to WHO statistics, approximately 2.2 billion people worldwide suffer from vision impairment or blindness, of which nearly half could have been prevented or has yet to be addressed. Programs like the one organized by Alakh Nayan Mandir Eye Institute play a crucial role in addressing this public health challenge at the local level.

Alakh Nayan Mandir Eye Institute has long been recognized for its commitment to community health initiatives. Through outreach programs, free health camps, and educational drives, the Institute strives to provide accessible eye care services to all sections of society. The World Sight Day camp in Udaipur reflects this ongoing dedication, particularly toward individuals like auto drivers, who often face occupational hazards affecting their vision.

By emphasizing preventive care, early detection, and education, such initiatives not only contribute to individual well-being but also promote broader community awareness on the importance of vision health. The Institute plans to continue similar programs in the future, aiming to create a sustainable impact on public health while reinforcing the message that healthy eyes are essential for a productive and fulfilling life.

The event concluded with participants receiving guidance on follow-up care, protective eyewear, and maintaining a balanced diet to support eye health. The collaborative efforts of the Institute, local authorities, and community members have made this World Sight Day observance a notable success, inspiring greater attention toward eye care among the city’s population.