Eyes for Nation: Planting Vision, Spreading Hope

"The eye is the window to the world; at the same time, it is the window of the soul." - William Shakespeare

On 14th February 2006, 25 members of Swachhandi Youth Foundation (SYF) celebrated Valentine’s Day in a unique and impactful way by pledging their eyes for donation through the “Eyes for Nation” program. Under the leadership and guidance of Mr. Sudarshan Dahatonde (Member of Student Council), they showed their love and gratitude towards society at the institutional premises of Padmashri Dr. Vithalrao Vikhe Patil College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Loni (Pravaranagar).

The event culminated with the submission of their fully completed forms to the Ophthalmology Department of Pravara Rural Medical Trust, Loni, in the presence of Hon’ble Shri. Rajendra Patil Vikhe - Trustee & Secretary of Pravara Rural Medical Trust, Loni.

Ongoing Commitment and Impact

Since then, Swachhandi has consistently organized Eyes for Nation camps on Valentine’s Day. To date, Swachhandi has registered over 2500 eye donors from 18 different states across India and various districts of Maharashtra, with donors ranging in age from 9 to 99 years. These 2500 eye donors have the potential to light up the lives of 5000 blind individuals. Volunteers of the Eyes for Nation program are known as Swachhandi Drishti Mitras.

Current Focus of Swachhandi Drishti Mitras:

Aim: To spread the importance and awareness of eye donation in society.

Objective: To create awareness and coordination between society and eye banks.

Mission: To provide high-quality eye care to the affected population.

Scope: To enhance the participation of the Indian population in the eye donation program.

Activities:

  • Eye Banking Coordination: Collaborating with NGOs.

  • Village Blind Register: Preparing registers of visually impaired individuals in villages.

  • Eye Screening Programs: Conducting eye screening programs in schools and villages.

"Be A Drishti Mitra, Become Swachhandi…!"

This initiative not only honors the memories of those who have pledged their eyes but also brings light and hope to those in need, embodying the true spirit of love and compassion.