NHM Seeks Increased Funds for Student Eyewear Program

The National Health Mission (NHM) plans to request additional funding from the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to enhance the Mission Drishti initiative. This program focuses on providing free eyeglasses to schoolchildren in government schools from Class VI to XII who are identified with refractive errors. Currently, the central government allocates approximately Rs 350 per pair of spectacles, while the actual cost in the state has been determined to be Rs 949 through competitive bidding.

Pradeep Thakur, Mission Director of NHM, emphasized the need for increased funding, stating, “It is not possible to provide spectacles at the cost approved by the Centre. We will soon write to the Ministry to enhance per unit cost.” This appeal underscores the challenges faced by the NHM in delivering essential eye care services to children in need.

Implementation and Challenges

The Himachal Pradesh Medical Services Corporation Limited has taken steps to implement the program by issuing a tender to select an agency responsible for carrying out the eye screenings and providing glasses. An official from the corporation confirmed that the agency has been finalized and is prepared to begin its work pending the approval of increased funding from the Centre.

“The hilly terrain and far-flung schools add to the cost of the scheme in the state,” the official noted, highlighting logistical challenges that contribute to the overall expenses. Thakur acknowledged that although the scheme has been operational for several years, the costs associated with it have not been updated. This has created a discrepancy between the approved funding and the actual expenses incurred by states.

Eye Health Among Schoolchildren

Regarding the prevalence of eye-related problems among schoolchildren in Himachal Pradesh, Thakur mentioned that the situation is not alarming at present. This assessment is crucial as the NHM seeks to address potential health risks and ensure that students receive the necessary visual aids to support their learning.

As NHM prepares to engage with the Union Ministry for additional resources, the outcome of this initiative could significantly impact the health and educational outcomes for many children in the region. By addressing the funding gap, the NHM aims to ensure that all students can access the eyeglasses they need, promoting better academic performance and overall well-being.