Pilgrims visiting the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj will have access to free eye-care services at Netra Kumbh, a specialised camp aimed at addressing eye health needs.
The initiative, organised by Saksham, will offer services ranging from routine examinations to cataract surgeries, benefiting lakhs of devotees.
Spread over nine acres in the mela area, Netra Kumbh aims to examine the eyes of more than five lakh people and distribute three lakh eyeglasses free of cost, said Kavindra Pratap Singh, chairman of the Netra Kumbh Organising Committee.
For patients requiring cataract surgeries, the camp has partnered with over 150 hospitals across the country to ensure free operations near their homes.
Singh elaborated, “Doctors will issue referral cards after examination. One copy will be sent to the concerned hospital, while another will remain with Saksham volunteers, who will coordinate the operation process.” Around 50,000 operation cards are expected to be issued during the camp.
The Netra Kumbh camp will be located near the Nagvasuki temple in Sector 6 of the fair area and will operate from January 12 to February 26, barring the days of 'shahi snan'.
During its tenure, the camp will host around 550 doctors, including 150 from outside Prayagraj, to cater to the pilgrims.
Media coordinator Dr Kritika Agarwal noted that during the 2019 Kumbh Mela, over three lakh people benefited from the initiative, with 1.5 lakh eyeglasses distributed.
She said, “We aim to surpass our earlier achievements, providing not only testing but also free medicines and refreshments.”
Additionally, the Indian Army will contribute to this endeavour, offering their services free of cost.
The Maha Kumbh, which begins on January 13 (Paush Purnima) and concludes on February 26 (Mahashivratri), is expected to witness millions of visitors from across the globe.
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