Srinagar, September 23 (KNB): The Indian Army, under the aegis of Chinar Corps and in coordination with the Directorate General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), is set to conduct a seven-day specialised medical outreach initiative, “Operation Drishti”, aimed at providing advanced ophthalmic care to underprivileged civilians and veterans in the remote areas of Tangdhar.
The Mega Cataract Surgery Camp will be held from September 23 to 30, 2026, with 400 patients identified and shortlisted for cataract surgery following extensive screening camps conducted by 92 Base Hospital across Tangdhar, Uri, Bandipora, Khanabal, Kangan, Dawar and Baramulla.
A specialised surgical team from Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi, led by Brigadier (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Head of Ophthalmology, has been mobilised for the initiative. Advanced diagnostic equipment and micro-surgical facilities have also been deployed to provide specialised cataract treatment free of cost.
The surgeries will be conducted in two phases.
During Phase I on September 24–25, around 200 patients will undergo surgery at the Underground Forward Surgical Centre (UG FSC) of Ex 328 Field Hospital, Tangdhar.
In Phase II on September 28–29, another 200 patients will undergo surgery at 92 Base Hospital, BB Cantonment, Srinagar.
The initiative seeks to bring specialised ophthalmic services closer to people living in remote and difficult-to-reach areas, where access to advanced eye-care facilities remains limited.
The Army said the initiative reflects its continued commitment to healthcare outreach under Operation Sadbhavana and aims to further strengthen the bond between the armed forces and the people of Kashmir (KNB)