The Indian Army, under the aegis of Chinar Corps and in coordination with the Directorate General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), is set to conduct a seven-day specialised medical outreach initiative, “Operation Drishti,” from 23 to 30 September 2026.
The initiative will include a Mega Cataract Surgery Camp aimed at providing advanced ophthalmic care to underprivileged civilians and veterans residing in the remote and challenging terrain of Tangdhar.
As part of the initiative, extensive screening camps were conducted by 92 Base Hospital across several far-flung locations, including Tangdhar, Uri, Bandipora, Khanabal, Kangan, Dawar and Baramulla. Following the screening, 400 patients have been identified and shortlisted for cataract surgery.
A highly specialised surgical team from Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi, led by Brigadier (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar Mishra, Head of Ophthalmology, has been mobilised for the initiative. Advanced diagnostic equipment and microsurgical facilities have been deployed to provide high-quality cataract treatment at zero cost to the beneficiaries. The surgical procedures will be conducted by the specialist team in close coordination with 92 Base Hospital and various medical and non-medical units.
The eye camp will be conducted in two phases:
Phase I (24–25 September 2026): 200 patients will undergo cataract surgery at the Underground Forward Surgical Centre (UG FSC), Ex 328 Field Hospital, Tangdhar.
Phase II (28–29 September 2026): 200 patients will undergo cataract surgery at 92 Base Hospital, BB Cantonment, Srinagar.
By taking specialised ophthalmic care directly to people living in remote and dispersed habitations, Operation Drishti seeks to address the shortage of specialised eye-care facilities in these areas. The initiative is part of the Indian Army’s continuing healthcare outreach under Operation Sadbhavana and reflects its ongoing engagement with local communities in the Kashmir Valley.
