Sankara Eye Foundation India: illuminating lives through vision restoration

IN the vast tapestry of India’s social and healthcare landscape, where challenges often overshadow opportunities, one organization has been tirelessly working to bring light and hope to the lives of millions. Founded in 1977 by the visionary Dr. R.V. Ramani, Sankara Eye Foundation India is characterized by compassion, dedication and innovation in the field of eye care. Over the years, this NGO has grown into a formidable force, operating a network of 11 hospitals with world-class facilities and infrastructure, extending its reach to both rural and urban communities across eight states in India.

The genesis of transformation

The story of Sankara Eye Foundation India began with a simple yet profound goal – to provide cost-effective community eye health services to the underprivileged sections of Indian society. Dr. R.V. Ramani, driven by a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to combating curable blindness, embarked on this remarkable journey. Little did he know that his vision would eventually touch the lives of millions, becoming a beacon of hope for those who had lost the gift of sight.

A unique community outreach model 

One of the cornerstones of Sankara Eye Foundation India’s success is its innovative Community Outreach Model. This model is not just unique but also replicable and sustainable. It has been the mark of the organization’s transformative journey, reaching out to over ten million lives since its inception. Under this model, Sankara Eye Foundation India brings eye care services directly to the doorsteps of the underprivileged, completely free of cost, through its “Gift of Vision” initiative.

The “Gift of Vision” initiative

The “Gift of Vision” project is the jewel in Sankara Eye Foundation India’s crown. It symbolizes the organization’s commitment to providing eye care services to the marginalized and impoverished sections of society. By conducting free eye camps and outreach programs, Sankara Eye Foundation India ensures that individuals who may otherwise never have access to eye care services can receive the gift of sight – donate here.

A pioneering approach to sustainability 

What sets Sankara Eye Foundation India apart from many other NGOs is its commitment to providing 80% of its beneficiaries with completely free eye care services. The organization manages to cross-subsidize these expenses through income generated from the remaining 20% of paying beneficiaries. This innovative financial model ensures that Sankara Eye Foundation India can sustain its mission and continue to expand its impact.

The power of effective planning and partnerships

Behind every successful initiative lies effective financial planning, transformational partnerships and innovative ideas. Sankara Eye Foundation India has mastered the art of rationalizing its vision restoration programs on a national scale. Through collaborations with various stakeholders, it has built a robust ecosystem that enables the efficient delivery of eye care services to those in need.

Addressing a crisis: blindness and poverty in India

The prevalence of curable blindness in India is one of the highest in the world. This crisis not only robs individuals of their independence and quality of life but also perpetuates the cycle of poverty. Sankara Eye Foundation India has taken up the mantle to address this formidable challenge head-on by providing high-quality, equitable and affordable eye care services to rural populations – donate here.

Comprehensive eye care services

Sankara Eye Foundation India’s scope of services encompasses a wide range of eye care needs. In urban areas, the organization operates hospitals equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. In rural areas, regular eye camps are conducted to identify patients who require treatment. These patients are then transported to base hospitals for surgeries and other necessary procedures. Services offered include:

Routine checkups: Regular eye checkups are essential for early detection and prevention of eye diseases.

Cataract removal and intraocular lens (IOL) clinics: Cataract is a leading cause of blindness, but it is treatable with surgery. Sankara Eye Foundation India offers these services to restore vision.

Cornea and refractive services: Disorders of the cornea and refractive errors can be corrected through specialized services.

Vitreo-retinal services: The organization provides advanced treatments for retinal conditions, preserving vision for many.

Glaucoma services: Early diagnosis and management of glaucoma are crucial in preventing vision loss.

Lasik surgery: Sankara Eye Foundation India also offers Lasik surgery to correct refractive errors, enhancing the quality of life for many.

Pediatric ophthalmology: Children with eye conditions receive specialized care to ensure a bright future.

Ocular oncology: Early detection and treatment of eye cancers are vital, and Sankara Eye Foundation India plays a role in this aspect of eye care as well.

Measuring impact, transforming lives

The impact of Sankara Eye Foundation India’s work is nothing short of extraordinary. Through its dedicated efforts, the organization has achieved remarkable milestones:

• A five-fold increase in free eye surgeries performed annually, from 30,000 to an astounding 150,000.
• A three-fold increase in vision screenings conducted annually in low-income rural areas, from 120,000 to 370,000.
• A quadrupled number of screening camps in rural communities, from 500 to over 2,000 annually, extending their reach far and wide.
• Over 5.1 million patients screened (as of October 2019), with each screening representing a potential life changed.
• Over 1.9 million free eye surgeries performed (as of October 2019), restoring the gift of sight to countless individuals.
• A significant focus on gender equity, with 55% of beneficiaries being women, ensuring that women receive equal access to eye care. 
• An astonishing 98% vision restoration rate, a testament to the organization’s commitment to excellence in eye care.

Sankara Eye Foundation India’s fundraiser

Sankara Eye Foundation India’s journey, from its humble beginnings in 1977 to its current status as one of India’s largest community eye care service providers, is a testament to the power of vision, compassion, and perseverance. Dr. R.V. Ramani’s dream of eradicating curable blindness and alleviating the suffering of the underprivileged has become a reality, thanks to the unwavering dedication of the organization’s staff, volunteers, and supporters.

As Sankara Eye Foundation India continues to expand its reach and impact, one thing remains constant: the organization’s commitment to restoring vision and transforming lives. In a country where millions still live in darkness, Sankara Eye Foundation India illuminates the path toward a brighter and more inclusive future for all. To support Sankara Eye Foundation India, you can donate here.