Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], June 21: India, often referred to as the “Blind Capital of the World,” is grappling with an urgent public health crisis in vision care. The country faces significant challenges related to accessibility, affordability, and awareness of eye health.

It was against this backdrop that Netra Kumbh, a unique “Kumbh within a Kumbh” at MahaKumbh in Prayagraj, has proven to be a transformative event in the realm of eye care. Over the course of two months, this landmark initiative provided a crucial touchpoint for pilgrims from tier 2 and 3 towns and villages across India needing eye care during the spiritual gathering. With over 200,000 free eye screenings, 150,000 free spectacles distributed, and over 16,000 cataract surgery referrals to hospitals across the country, the impact is both significant and inspiring.

Key Impact & Recognition The success of Netra Kumbh resonated beyond the event itself. Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi recognised the initiative’s exceptional achievements, praising the collaborative spirit and unwavering dedication that delivered free eye care services to so many. Netra Kumbh has been a testimony that public/private partnership can revolutionise eye-care in the grassroots. 

Collaborative Partnerships Alongside Care Netram–Good Vision India Foundation, other eye care institutions contributed their expertise and resources, showcasing the power of collaboration in healthcare. As a proud partner of NetraKumbh, Care Netram – Good Vision India played a frontline role in making quality vision care accessible to thousands during MahaKumbh. Our mission extends far beyond the event, into the remote forests of Odisha, among the Bonda Tribe, along dusty highways, in school classrooms, at factory floors and deep within India’s underserved slums.

Through targeted eye camps for school children, drivers, factory workers, marginalised communities, mobile screening units, trained vision technicians, optometrists and instant spectacle dispensing, Care Netram is making vision care immediate and impactful.

We Caught up with the Country Director of Care Netram - GoodVision India and he said, “With immense gratitude, we celebrate the successful conclusion of Netra Kumbh, the world’s largest eye screening event at MahaKumbh in Prayagraj. This milestone was made possible by the unwavering dedication of Netra Kumbh organisers, volunteers, and the incredible team at Care Netram–Good Vision India. Together, we have brought the gift of sight to thousands, reaffirming our commitment to accessible eye care for all. Thank you for being part of this historic journey!” – Piush Khetan, Country Director, Care Netram–Good Vision India

Expert Insights from the Field 

Our dedicated medical professionals have also shared their experiences:

  • A senior doctor highlighted, “The auto refractometer we use here is especially beneficial for those who cannot easily move or are too tired. It ensures accurate, quick measurements, enabling us to serve more pilgrims efficiently.”
  • Other optometrists and doctors echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the professionalism and advanced technology that underpin our services at Netra Kumbh.

The Importance of Organised Eye Care Events

Events like NetraKumbh are more than momentary milestones, these are powerful catalysts that shape the future of inclusive, community-led eye care across India.

They serve not only as a platform for providing free, quality care but also as an educational forum that changes the mindset toward proactive, accessible vision care. The success of this event sets a benchmark for future initiatives, inspiring organisations worldwide to emulate this community-driven model. Speaking of the grand event Mr.Prashant Pachisia, Director, 2COMS Group and Founder Care Netram - GoodVision India aid, "The event has been an eye opener for the scale of humanity that benefited from simple eye tests. India, which is the blind capital of the world, needs more of government-private partnerships at such grand scales to tackle the issue of curable blindness."

The Fusion of Spirituality and Eye Care 

At MahaKumbh, the unique blend of spirituality and eye care creates an environment where the body and mind are nurtured together. Led by Lt. Colonel Praveen Kumar Reddy, Netra Kumbh was a visionary undertaking that not only provided essential services but also celebrated the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the event. His leadership ensured that this initiative would leave a lasting legacy, reshaping perspectives on eye care for the nation.

Netra Kumbh concluded successfully at MahaKumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, where more than 40 crore pilgrims gathered, creating a historic platform for delivering essential eye care services on an unprecedented scale.

Care Netram–Good Vision India remains dedicated to its mission of Helping India See Better, ensuring that quality eye care reaches every corner of the country.

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