25 July 2026, Keredari, Hazaribagh: A one-day training programme on Eye Health and Inclusion was organised on 23rd July under the aegis of the CLF Livelihood Organisation, Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society (JSLPS) at the Panchayat Bhawan, Keredari, as an activity of the Netra Vasant – Rural Eye Health Programme, implemented by Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) with the support of Sightsavers India.
The training brought together 57 participants, including Sahiyas, Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), health workers, Panchayat members and Gender Community Resource Persons (CRPs). The programme aimed to strengthen community-level capacity for the early identification of eye diseases and to promote inclusive access to quality eye care services.
During the training, participants were oriented on cataract identification, referral mechanisms, community-based eye care services and the importance of enhancing women’s participation in eye health initiatives. Discussions also focused on achieving the goal of eliminating avoidable blindness through village-level household surveys and the organisation of community eye screening camps. Cataract patients identified during these activities will be referred to the Community Health Centre for primary examination and subsequently to LNJP Eye Hospital, Chauparan, or Sadar Hospital, Hazaribagh, for cataract surgery, wherever required.
The technical sessions were facilitated by Vipin Kumar and Akash Kumar, who highlighted the crucial role of frontline health workers in ensuring timely detection and referral of patients with visual impairment.
The programme was attended by Ms. Anju Devi, Mukhiya of Keredari Panchayat; Kirti Rawat, District Programme Officer, Rural Eye Health Programme; Sadanand Kumar; and other stakeholders, who appreciated the initiative and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening community participation in preventing avoidable blindness and ensuring inclusive eye health services for all.
About the author : Anand Abhinav
