To enhance the quality of life for artisans in Kashmir, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has collaborated with two NGOs to provide eye care services to 10,000 artisans in the region.
Program Manager at the Help Foundation NGO, Asma Qureshi told Rising Kashmir that in partnership with the OneSight EssilorLuxottica and Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, HELP Foundation, has launched an eye care program which targets 15,000 artisans to provide essential vision care services, many of whom will be receiving eye screenings for the first time.
Asma said that they have signed a tripartite MOU with the Directorate of Health Services to ensure that every artisan in need can benefit from this essential service.
She said that the program will offer free eye examinations conducted by qualified professionals. “This initiative is about ensuring that artisans, especially those with refractive errors and blurred vision, receive the care they need,” she added.
Asma said that those requiring corrective lenses will be provided with glasses at no cost, while the program also aims to raise awareness about the importance of eye health.
“By including the families of artisans, we are ensuring that everyone involved in the craft has access to proper vision care,” she added.
She said that the initiative will also establish a framework for continuous monitoring and support for those with chronic eye conditions to ensure sustained care and long-term health outcomes.
She also said that by providing artisans with good vision, they empower them to continue their craft with confidence to preserve the state’s cultural heritage.
Asma said that the eye care program will be implemented in phases, beginning with community assessments and mobilization efforts in Srinagar, Bandipora, Baramulla, and Budgam districts. “We believe that many artisans are unaware of conditions like cataracts or the long-term effects of untreated eye issues,” she added.
Director Health Services Kashmir, Dr Jahangir Bhakshi while confirming the collaboration with NGOs said that they will start working once the Model Code of Conduct is over.
