Tangdhar Sep 25: The Indian Army conducted a mega eye and cataract surgery camp under Operation Drishti at the Underground Forward Surgical Centre of Ex 328 Field Hospital in Tangdhar, bringing specialised ophthalmic care closer to residents of the remote border area.

The two day Tangdhar phase was conducted on September 24 and 25 as part of a larger medical outreach programme being carried out under the aegis of Chinar Corps in coordination with the Directorate General of Armed Forces Medical Services.

A specialised surgical team from Army Hospital (Research and Referral), New Delhi, led by Brigadier (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Head of Ophthalmology, was deployed for the initiative. Advanced diagnostic equipment and microsurgical facilities were made available at the field centre to provide cataract treatment free of cost. 

The beneficiaries were identified through screening camps organised by 92 Base Hospital across several remote areas, including Tangdhar, Uri, Bandipora, Khanabal, Kangan, Dawar and Baramulla. Around 400 patients were shortlisted for cataract surgery, with 200 surgeries planned during the Tangdhar phase. 

The initiative aims to reduce the difficulties faced by residents of remote and mountainous areas who often have to travel to Srinagar for specialised eye treatment. Residents who spoke to ANI said the camp helped them save considerable travel expenses and time. 

The remaining 200 surgeries are scheduled to be conducted at 92 Base Hospital, Badami Bagh Cantonment, Srinagar, during the second phase of the programme.

Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth also visited Tangdhar on Friday to attend the closing ceremony of the Tangdhar phase of Operation Drishti. 

Operation Drishti forms part of the Army's wider healthcare outreach efforts under Operation Sadbhavana, with the programme seeking to take specialised medical services to people living in difficult and underserved areas.