Tue Feb 24 18:24:53 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Karnataka’s Asha Kirana Initiative Provides Free Eye Screenings to 1.4 Crore People, Gains WHO Recognition
The Story:
Karnataka’s state health department’s Asha Kirana program, launched in July 2025, has provided free eye screenings to 1.4 crore people through ASHA workers. The redesigned initiative aims to eliminate preventable visual impairment and has established 393 permanent vision centers across the state. These centers offer comprehensive eye-care services, including vision screening, free spectacles, cataract surgeries, and eye donation services. The World Health Organization (WHO) has commended the program and expressed interest in documenting it for potential replication in other regions.
Key Points:
- The Asha Kirana program was launched in July 3, 2025, to tackle preventable blindness.
- 1.4 crore people have been screened in the Asha Kirana vision centers.
- Over 2.91 lakh people have received free spectacles.
- A total of 4,19,972 cataract surgeries have been performed as of January 2026.
- 58,582 cataract surgeries were conducted in government hospitals, and 3,61,390 in private hospitals.
- The WHO has commended the program and may replicate the model in other states and countries.
Key Takeaways:
- The Asha Kirana program is making significant strides in addressing preventable visual impairment in Karnataka.
- The program’s success is attributed to its comprehensive approach, including screening, treatment, and awareness campaigns.
- Partnerships with both government and private hospitals are crucial for scaling up cataract surgeries.
- The WHO’s recognition highlights the program’s potential as a model for other regions.
- Focusing on common issues like cataracts and uncorrected refractive errors has proven effective.
Impact Analysis:
The Asha Kirana initiative’s success has long-term implications for public health in Karnataka and potentially beyond. By significantly reducing preventable blindness, the program can improve the quality of life for millions of people, increase workforce participation, and reduce the economic burden associated with visual impairment. The WHO’s interest in documenting and replicating the model suggests that it could be adopted in other states and countries, leading to a global impact on eye health. The focus on economically disadvantaged individuals ensures that healthcare is accessible to those who need it most, contributing to a more equitable society.
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