25 February 2026, Daru (Hazaribagh, Jharkhand): An Orientation Training on Eye Health and Social Inclusion was successfully organized at Petto Primary Health Centre, Daru Block, under the Netra Vasant – Rural Eye Health Programme. The programme is being implemented by Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) with the support of Sightsavers India.
The primary objective of the orientation was to strengthen community-level coordination to eliminate pending cataract cases, identify individuals suffering from bilateral cataract blindness, facilitate their timely surgery, and work collectively towards making Daru Block free from cataract-related blindness. The initiative also emphasized the importance of social inclusion to ensure that marginalized and vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, have equitable access to quality eye care services.
The programme was graced by District Council Member Mrs. Geeta Devi as the Chief Guest. Other distinguished attendees included Mukhiya of Harli Panchayat Mrs. Farzana Khatoon, Medical Officer of Daru Block Dr. Amresh Kumar, JSLPS Block Programme Manager Mr. Rajkumar, District Coordinator of the Rural Eye Health Programme Mr. Kirti Rawat, and Social Inclusion District Coordinator Mr. Raman Vishwakarma.
A total of 68 participants actively took part in the training. The participants included Mukhiyas from seven Panchayats, 48 Sahiyas, Sahiya Sarthi, BTT Coordinators, 10 Gender CRPs from JSLPS, frontline health workers, members of Disabled People’s Organizations (DPOs), and Panchayat Samiti members.
During the session, speakers highlighted cataract as one of the leading causes of avoidable blindness in rural areas and stressed the need for early identification, community awareness, and prompt surgical intervention. They underlined the crucial role of Panchayati Raj representatives, community health workers, and grassroots institutions in mobilizing patients, reducing delays in treatment, and ensuring follow-up support.
The orientation concluded with a collective commitment from all stakeholders to work in close coordination to address cataract-related blindness and promote inclusive, accessible, and sustainable eye health services in Daru Block.
About the author : Anand Abhinav
