28 February 2025, Gaya: In a remarkable display of accessible healthcare transforming lives, Shri Veeran Manjhi, a 65-year-old resident of Koilipur village in Manpur block, Gaya district, has regained his vision and independence after undergoing a successful cataract surgery at LNJP Eye Hospital, Kajha (Gaya), run by Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK).
Belonging to the most deprived Bhuiyan community, a Scheduled Caste group, Veeran worked as a landless agricultural laborer, striving to support his family of nine. However, his deteriorating vision over the years turned daily life into a struggle. Unable to perform even personal tasks, he became dependent on others, causing distress within his household.
A turning point came when LNJP Eye Hospital organized an eye screening camp near his village. Encouraged by his family, Veeran attended the camp and was diagnosed with a cataract in his right eye, with his vision measured at 1/60 in the affected eye and NO PL in the left eye. Recognizing the urgency of his condition, the hospital promptly arranged for his free cataract surgery at their base hospital.
With comprehensive support covering transportation, food, accommodation, medication, and post-surgical care, including follow-ups by an optometrist, Veeran successfully underwent cataract surgery on 25th November 2024. His vision significantly improved to 6/18 in the right eye, enabling him to regain self-reliance and resume work. The surgery was made possible through the support of Combat Blindness, which provided the necessary intraocular lens.
Expressing his heartfelt gratitude, Veeran Manjhi commended LNJP Eye Hospital for its exceptional care and life-changing intervention. This initiative highlights the importance of accessible eye care in restoring dignity and improving the quality of life for underprivileged communities.
About the author : Anand Abhinav
