Armed Forces Launch Mega Eye Surgery Camp in Ranchi

The surgical team is led by Brigadier Dr Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Consultant and Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at Army Hospital (Research and Referral), New Delhi.

A major healthcare outreach programme is underway in Ranchi as the Indian Army and Indian Air Force have joined hands to conduct a Mega Advanced Surgical Eye Camp under Operation DRISHTI. The initiative, being held at Military Hospital Namkum from June 15 to 19, aims to restore vision and improve the quality of life of more than 200 beneficiaries through free advanced eye surgeries.

The camp is providing specialised ophthalmic treatment to ex-servicemen, dependents of serving personnel and underprivileged civilians, bringing high-end medical care closer to communities that may otherwise have limited access to such facilities.

Advanced Eye Care Brought to Ranchi

The surgical team is led by Brigadier Dr Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Consultant and Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at Army Hospital (Research and Referral), New Delhi. The specialists are performing a range of advanced procedures designed to treat some of the most common and complex eye conditions.

These include Phacoemulsification surgery for cataracts, Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) and Anti-VEGF intravitreal injections used in the treatment of vitreo-retinal diseases. Comprehensive screening and evaluation of patients are also being conducted throughout the camp to identify those requiring surgical intervention.

The initiative is expected to benefit a large number of patients suffering from vision-related disorders, helping many regain sight and improve their daily lives.

Airlifted Equipment Supports Specialised Treatment

To ensure the availability of advanced medical facilities, the Indian Air Force transported specialised ophthalmic equipment to Ranchi using service aircraft. The deployment of modern diagnostic and surgical systems has enabled the medical team to provide treatment standards comparable to those available at leading tertiary care hospitals. Officials said the logistical support reflects the growing role of the armed forces in delivering specialised healthcare services to remote and underserved regions.

The combination of expert medical personnel and advanced equipment has allowed the camp to offer procedures that are often difficult to access in many parts of the country.

Operation DRISHTI Expands Humanitarian Outreach

Director General Armed Forces Medical Services Vice Admiral Arti Sarin described the initiative as an example of the armed forces' commitment to both national security and social welfare. She said the mission reflects the military's role not only as a protector of the nation but also as a contributor to community well-being and resilience through humanitarian outreach programmes.

Operation DRISHTI has emerged as one of the Armed Forces Medical Services' flagship healthcare initiatives. Before the Ranchi camp, advanced surgical eye camps were successfully conducted in several remote and strategically important regions, including Leh, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, Bhuj, Kutch and Bagdogra. By combining specialised expertise with community service, the programme continues to bring quality eye care to regions where access to advanced ophthalmic treatment remains limited, helping hundreds of patients regain vision and lead healthier lives.