In a major healthcare outreach initiative under Operation Drishti, a specialised ophthalmic team from the Indian Army and Indian Air Force (IAF) held a Mega Advanced Surgical Eye Camp at Military Hospital Namkum, Ranchi. The camp was held from 15-19 June 2026 with an aim to restore vision and improve the quality of life of more than 300 beneficiaries with free of cost advanced eye surgeries.

The surgical team led by Brigadier Dr Sanjay Kumar Mishra, consultant and head of department (ophthalmology), Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi, performed a range of advanced ophthalmic procedures, including phacoemulsification for cataract, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) and anti-VEGF intravitreal injections for vitreo-retinal diseases. Comprehensive screening was carried out for ex-servicemen, serving dependents and underprivileged civilians, with a significant turnout during the camp. To support the mission, world-class medical equipment was airlifted to Ranchi through IAF service aircraft, enabling the delivery of specialised surgical care in the region.

Over 2,500 patients were screened and more than 300 sight-restoring procedures were performed, including over 260 cataract surgeries, of which more than 100 benefited underprivileged tribal patients. For instance, Ekka, 68, widow of late ex-havildar Jon Augustus Ekka of the Bihar Regiment, was operated for a cataract that had significantly impaired vision in her right eye. Through a successful phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation procedure, her sight was restored, reaffirming the army’s enduring commitment to the welfare of veterans’ families.

Director General Armed Forces Medical Services Vice Admiral Arti Sarin highlighted the importance of the humanitarian mission. She stated that the mission is a testament to the military’s dual identity as both a formidable guardian of the nation’s borders and a compassionate architect of social resilience.

Operation Drishti is a flagship outreach programme that combines advanced ophthalmic expertise with humanitarian service. Prior to Ranchi, the initiative successfully conducted eight advanced surgical eye camps across the country, including in Leh, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, Bhuj, Kutch, and Bagdogra, bringing specialised eye care to remote and underserved regions.