The ‘Kanti Velugu’ program, launched by the government of Telangana to provide free eye screening and treatment to the entire population of the state, has concluded after screening over one crore people. The program was launched in October 2018 and aimed at identifying and treating eye problems in the early stages to prevent blindness. The program was implemented in collaboration with various NGOs and private hospitals, and the government spent over Rs. 500 crores on the initiative.
The program was a massive success, with over 1.2 crore people screened for eye problems, and around 11 lakh people receiving treatment for various eye ailments. The government set up over 10,000 screening centers across the state, including in remote villages and tribal areas, to ensure that every person in the state had access to eye care services. The program also provided free spectacles to those who needed them and performed cataract surgeries on over 60,000 people.
The ‘Kanti Velugu’ program is a significant achievement for the government of Telangana, as it has helped identify and treat eye problems in the early stages, preventing blindness in many cases. The program has also raised awareness about the importance of regular eye check-ups and has encouraged people to take care of their eyesight. The government now plans to launch a similar program for hearing screening and treatment, which will benefit millions of people across the state who suffer from hearing problems. Overall, the ‘Kanti Velugu’ program has been a game-changer in the field of eye care services in Telangana and has set an example for other states to follow.
