Netra Kumbh 2025: Revolutionizing Eye Care at Mahakumbh

Netra Kumbh 2025 is an ambitious initiative dedicated to providing high-quality ophthalmic care to thousands of visitors attending the Mahakumbh. By integrating advanced technology, skilled volunteers, and robust infrastructure, the program ensures seamless and large-scale eye care services.

Key Contributors and Volunteers

Lt Col Dr. Praveen Kumar Reddy, Ex AMC & Director of Swami Vivekanand Health Mission Society, served as Chief Medical Officer, mobilizing doctors and premier institutions across India. Lt Col Shomi Vaibhav Nirban, Ex EME & Founder Director of Shovaniya Vedic Forms, coordinated the participation of 40 doctors daily for 50 days, supported by a dedicated team. Chief Tech Advisor Mr. Prasanna Darog designed the digital system, while Mr. Satish Jain and Mr. Giridhar Balakrishna played key roles in infrastructure and digital transformation.

 Infrastructure and Service Delivery

Netra Kumbh 2025 features 42 registration counters, 40 ophthalmologist stations with slit lamps, 100 vision screening stations using autorefraction technology, and 14 fundus cameras for diagnosing diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Over 50 lens edging machines ensure spectacles are dispensed swiftly, with 95% provided within 2-3 hours. High-power lenses are delivered the next day or sent free via India Post. Electronic Medical Records (EMR) streamline operations.

Volunteer Participation and Patient Impact

More than 500 ophthalmologists and 1,000 optometrists ensure rapid and effective treatment, with 40 ophthalmologists and 250 optometrists on duty at all times. As of February 13, 2025, Netra Kumbh has screened 1,49,333 patients, dispensed 1,03,141 spectacles, and referred 12,543 patients for advanced treatments at 250 partner hospitals.

 Strong Collaborations and Digital Innovation

Collaborations with Sadguru Netra Chikitsalay, Chitrakoot; Apollo Hospital & Billion Hearts Beating Foundation; Army Medical Corps; RIOs across the country; Sankara Netralaya; Dr. Shroff’s Charity Hospital; Sankara Eye Hospitals; LV Prasad Eye Hospital; AIIMS Delhi; BHU; Good Vision & Care Netram; and other institutions enhance outreach and service quality. Digital operations, monitored from Bengaluru, leverage 250 laptops, two servers, and cloud-based data management.

Scaling the Netra Kumbh Model

Netra Kumbh 2025 serves as a blueprint for large-scale, structured eye care. Its referral-based model, collaboration with independent eye care providers, and digital tracking can be replicated at mass gatherings and rural outreach programs.

Conclusion

Netra Kumbh 2025 is transforming eye care with strategic partnerships, technology, and community-driven efforts, setting a new standard for accessible ophthalmic services across India and beyond.