The high incidence of preventable blindness particularly in children prompted us to set up an Eye Clinic in 2002. S. Venkatesh, a young man from a nearby village, was given training by the L. V. Prasad Institute in Hyderabad in the use of specialised equipment to diagnose disorders of the eye, such as glaucoma, cataract and other common diseases. From these simple beginnings the Clinic now serves a large population of around 35,000.

A major area of our work is in arranging cataract operations and providing post-operative care. Dr. Krishna Reddy, an eye surgeon in Madanpalle, offers his services at minimal cost, with the patient contributing a share commensurate with his or her ability.

Around 300 operations have been successfully performed to date. Surgeries are done at an average cost of Rs 1200/-. All patients were operated at Satya Eye Hospital at Madanapalle. Though supported by various friends and well wishers we were still in the red to the tune of Rs 60,000. Donations in this area would be most welcome.

Blindness in children due to vitamin deficiencies is also treated with 6 monthly Vitamin A tablets.

For further information contact Dr. Kartik Kalyanram: kartik@rishivalley.org