Our vision is a precious gift that deserves our utmost care and attention. However, the sobering reality is that millions worldwide grapple with blindness and visual impairment. In response, the Indian government designates April 1 to April 7 as Prevention of Blindness Week. This observance serves as a poignant call to individuals, emphasising the importance of prudent lifestyle choices and regular eye examinations to mitigate the risk of eye ailments, including age-related macular degeneration.
Furthermore, the week aims to raise awareness regarding the myriad factors contributing to blindness. It seeks to educate people on various eye injuries, visual impairments, effective preventive measures, treatment modalities, and potential cures. A nationwide campaign, uniting healthcare professionals, educators, and social workers, is organised, featuring free eye checkup clinics and camps aimed at fostering optimal eye hygiene practices.
Prevention of Blindness Week 2024: History
Jawaharlal Nehru and Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur founded the National Society for the Prevention of Blindness in 1960 under the Societies Registration Act of 1860. It is an entirely voluntary organisation that accepts donations and contributions and actively collaborates with Sight Savers, Rotary International and other significant companies.
Notably, India was also the first country to seek a subsidised loan from the World Bank’s International Development Agency to eradicate blindness.
Prevention of Blindness Week 2024: Theme
The World Health Organisation (WHO) in collaboration with the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness and other non-governmental organisations (NGOs) decide on the theme. However, the theme for this year has not been revealed so far.
Prevention of Blindness Week 2024: Facts
- India holds a significant proportion of the world’s visually impaired population, according to statistics.
- Malnutrition, trachoma, and cataracts are major causes of blindness in India, while the leading cause of blindness in children is the deficiency of vitamin A.
- Cataracts represent the most prevalent cause of blindness across the nation.
- The majority of individuals with vision impairment are over the age of 50 years.
- More than two-thirds of blind people are native to Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.
Prevention of Blindness Week 2024: Quotes
- “The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.” – Helen Keller
- “The eyes indicate the antiquity of the soul.”- Ralph Waldo Emerson
- “Those born blind cannot see, similarly blind are those in the grip of lust. Proud men have no perception of evil, and those bent on acquiring riches see no sin in their actions.”- Chanakya
- “Sight is a precious gift. Let’s work together to ensure everyone can see the world’s beauty.”
- “There is no better way to thank God for your sight than by giving a helping hand to someone in the dark.” – Helen Keller
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