Patna: A vision crisis is being seen across the state, with a large section of the population struggling with undiagnosed eyesight issues. This has come to light during free eye check-up camps at Buniyad centres, where nearly 85% of those screened have been found to need spectacles — pointing to how deeply poor vision is affecting daily life, productivity and overall well-being, especially among the state’s vulnerable sections.The statewide campaign, aimed at providing accessible and timely eye care services to weaker, deprived and needy sections, will continue till May 5. Around 5,000 people are reaching centres daily for eye examinations.Officials said 12,771 spectacles have been distributed so far. Spectacle distribution begins 15 days after the eye examination through empanelled agencies under the State Health Committee.The first phase of the campaign began on March 23, during which about 86,000 beneficiaries underwent eye tests. Of them, more than 73,000 were found to require spectacles, while 11,714 beneficiaries have already received them.The highest number of eye check-ups in the first phase was recorded at the Gopalganj Sadar Buniyad centre in Gopalganj district, where 1,406 people were examined and 1,135 were prescribed spectacles.The department has fixed a target of distributing 1,000 spectacles at each Buniyad centre, with the overall statewide target set at 1 lakh spectacles.The month-long campaign is being conducted in three phases at Buniyad centres across the state. Beneficiaries are being examined by specialists and recommended spectacles based on need, with supplies arranged within 15 days of screening.Districts have been directed to intensify efforts to ensure maximum outreach to eligible beneficiaries before the campaign concludes on May 5.
