From darkness to hope: How the Indian Army is restoring the gift of sight to over 200 people under Operation DRISHTI

RANCHI, June 16 — A specialized military medical team has launched a major healthcare outreach initiative called Operation DRISHTI to restore vision and transform lives through free advanced eye surgeries. The mega advanced surgical eye camp, which runs from June 15 to 19 at the Military Hospital Namkum in Ranchi, aims to provide specialized ophthalmic care to more than 200 beneficiaries, including ex-servicemen, serving dependents, and underprivileged civilians.

The specialized surgical team is led by Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Consultant and Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at the Army Hospital Research and Referral in New Delhi. The medical team is performing a wide range of advanced procedures, such as phacoemulsification for cataracts, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, and advanced injections for vitreo-retinal diseases.

To ensure the highest standard of care, world-class medical equipment was airlifted directly to Ranchi using Indian Air Force service aircraft, making specialized surgical care accessible to the region.

Director General Armed Forces Medical Services Arti Sarin highlighted the deep humanitarian impact of the initiative, describing the mission as a testament to the dual identity of the military as both a guardian of borders and a compassionate architect of social resilience.

Operation DRISHTI stands as a flagship outreach programme that blends advanced medical expertise with community service. Prior to the Ranchi camp, the initiative successfully organized eight advanced surgical eye camps in remote and underserved regions across India, including Leh, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, Bhuj, Kutch, and Bagdogra.