Asha Kirana facilitates more than 2.5 lakh cataract surgeries in Karnataka

According to a report released on Wednesday by the World Health Organisation, the state government and OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, more than 2.5 lakh cataract surgeries have been performed in Karnataka under the Asha Kirana initiative since 2022. October 8 is celebrated as World Sight Day.

The initiative has also enabled 14 million primary vision screenings and distribution of over 4.5 lakh spectacles free of cost in eight districts, says the report, “Advancing Integrated, People-Centred Eyecare”.

A key achievement highlighted in the report was the institutionalization of 393 vision centres, or Drishti Kendras, as part of the state’s public health system. Located in community health centres, taluk hospitals and district hospitals, the centers provide community eye services focusing on uncorrected refractive errors and cataracts.

Each Drishti Kendra has been linked to a secondary level surgical center for cataract procedures and specialized treatment of complex eye conditions.

Health Minister UT Khader said the initiative aims to prevent preventable blindness by bringing eye care services closer to communities.

Dr. Mohammed Asheel, National Focal Point for Eye Care, WHO India, said Asha Kirana demonstrated how WHO’s integrated approach to eye care could be implemented through community services, trained health workers and technology.

Published – 7 Oct 2026 21:57 IST