Rural Vision Center Program Gathers Momentum

We are honored and grateful to announce a gift from entrepreneur Subroto Bagchi (founder of the IT firm Mindtree) to develop several new rural vision centers over the next two years. This generous gift brings Aravind Eye Care System ever closer to the vision of universal eye care for southern India. 

Aravind pioneered the vision center concept to provide eye care to people most in need. Nearly 70% of India’s population lives in rural areas, with little access to eye care. Patients might travel up to 250 miles to see a doctor, and lose a day’s wages to get there and are dependent on the relatives to take them. Rural vision centers offer eye exams, fit eye glasses, and treat minor ailments based on real time consultations offered by Aravind doctors via a web cam and Internet connectivity. Patients needing additional care are referred to the nearest Aravind Eye Hospital. 

Aravind plans to build 130 rural vision centers in southern India by 2020. We are grateful to our donors – Seva Foundation, Standard Chartered Bank, Lavelle Fund for the Blind, Liane Ginsberg Trust, Proof Eyewear, and the Kelly sisters – who have helped build more 49 vision centers to date.