VisionSpring Foundation

According to a report by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC, it is estimated that there are over 70 lakhs artisans in India, and among them, the handloom sector provides direct employment to 43 lakhs handloom weavers, of which 36.33 lakh live in rural areas. Similar is the population engaged in other vision demanding works such as tea plucking, farming, processing etc. Recognizing and promoting their work can lead to a more inclusive and thriving economy.

Eyeglasses are important for all these workers, as they involve intricate and detailed work. They need clear vision to handle small materials, threads, and tools with precision, to see the colour of tea leaves etc. Improved eye sight can improve the product quality and quantity, and hence improved productivity and income. We set up eye screening units to cater to these population across the country.

The "See to Learn" program addresses the impact of vision impairment on children. The shift to online learning during the COVID-19 had negative effects on children's eye health and academic performance, often leading to school dropouts. Wearing eyeglasses has been shown to significantly improve learning outcomes. Approximately 72% of those who were provided eyeglasses through our previous programmes were First Time Wearers (FTWs).
We conduct eye screening in government schools across India. We have a team of community mobilzer, optometrist, and counsellor for spectacle dispensing. We train the government school teachers for pre-screening, and those who are identified with vision problems are directed for screening by optometrist. We have range of spectacles with colours and frames from which students can choose as per their choice. We train and aware both teachers, parents and children on good eye practices, health eating as well as on continued wearing of spectacles.

Vision is essential for driving, and good vision is needed to identify road hazards, read signs and see the dashboard. To understand the need of driver’s visual health, VisionSpring conducted a cross sectional study to understand driver’s visual health and need for visual correction, knowledge, attitude and practices of drivers towards eye health, explores the driver’s perceptions about the usefulness of eyeglasses to improve on-the-job road safety and driver’s personal well-being. The study revealed that 25% drivers cannot see road signs 20-30 m away; 68% never had eyes tested for application of driving license or renewal of license; 43% drivers identified blurred vision as a main issue while driving. Majority(80%) reported glare from vehicle headlights affects vision; 76% drivers stated eyeglasses are essential for safety and optimal job performance. Hence in this programme we conduct eye screening of drivers and allied staff in collaboration with transport hubs across India.