On October 12, 2023, MOHAN Foundation was invited to observe
“24th World Sight Day 2023,” organised by the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCBVI) under the aegis of the National Health Mission (NHM), Manipur, at the Classic Grande, Chingmeirong, Manipur. Ms. Laishram Monica Devi, Programme Officer, MOHAN Foundation, and Ms. Thoidingjam Udayini Khuman, Transplant Coordinator, MOHAN Foundation, represented the Foundation.
The function was graced by Dr. Sapam Ranjan Singh, Hon’ble Minister, Health & Family Welfare, Manipur, as the Chief Guest; Dr. Khoirom Sasheekumar Mangang, Director, Manipur Health Services, as the President; Dr. Yambem Yaima Singh, Former Director, Directorate of Health Services, Manipur; and Dr. Somorjit Ningombam, State Mission Director, NHM, Manipur, as the Guests of Honour. The programme was attended by ophthalmologists, medical officers, doctors, nurses, and representatives of different NGOs working in the field of eye and corneal transplants.
After the dignitaries extended their felicitations, Dr. Vikram Singh Khoisnam, State Nodal Officer, NPCBVI, NHM Manipur, commenced the programme by extending his welcome. In his key note address, he emphasised that approximately 4,186 cataract surgeries were conducted with the assistance of NGOs and institutions beginning in 2022 under the 'Chief Minister Mit Ki Layeng' (CMML) initiative. Furthermore, he implored the public to seize this occasion to address the issues in a timely manner.
Several prescription glasses were distributed to cataract patients who had received benefits under the CMML. Appreciation certificates were also given to the NGOs working for eye donation.
In his address to the audience, the Chief Guest of the programme, Dr. Ranjan, noted that glaucoma has become one of the leading causes of blindness in Manipur, where its incidence has been consistently increasing. "Glaucoma cases have jumped to 5.08 percent, which is an alarming figure compared to other forms of eye illnesses, which are well below critical levels," according to him. He further emphasised the importance of implementing a specialised programme to conduct surveys and detect the disease among the populace, adding that the state government would also be investigating the issue. "The performance of approximately 2,596 surgeries in the state of Manipur amidst the ongoing unrest represents a tremendous accomplishment." He added, "The ophthalmic bus utilised for eye treatment in remote regions of the state has also proven to be beneficial."
Dr. Ranjan emphasised the significance of eye donation in conjunction with organ donation, stating, "The eye bank and corneal transplantation licence has been approved; the bank will be formally inaugurated and commence operations by the conclusion of October."
Close to 130 participants attended the programme.
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