HISTORY- NAVJAAT SHISHU DRISHTI SURAKSHA KAARYAKRAM:
The Navjaat Shishu Drishti Suraksha Kaaryakram was conceptualized and developed by Foot Soldiers for Health (FSH) as a strategic initiative to address critical eye health needs among newborns. The proposal for the program was formulated by FSH and later presented to a donor family for consideration.

Following discussions between FSH and the donor family, the proposal was accepted, and the family generously committed to supporting the cause. The primary donor for the initiative is the Chintaman Paranjpe Vision Endowment, a fund established in honor of Shri Chintaman Paranjpe Ji. The endowment has been made possible through the contribution of Shri Suresh Paranjpe, who is dedicated to carrying forward his father’s legacy. The grant for the project was sanctioned by the donors based on the proposal submitted by FSH. Sewa International serves as the grant facilitator, ensuring the seamless transfer of funds from the donor family to FSH.

FSH plays a dual role as both the implementation partner and the on-ground executor of the project. The organization actively collaborates with partnering institutions, facilitating program execution and ensuring the sustainability and long-term success of the initiative.

OVERVIEW:
The Chintaman Paranjpe Vision Endowment Project is dedicated to enhancing eye health and vision care accessibility. Established in memory of Chintaman Paranjpe, this initiative aims to provide quality eye care services, support research in ophthalmology, and promote awareness about preventable blindness.

KEY OBJECTIVES:

PREVENTION OF RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY (ROP):
The project aims to fortify existing ROP care services at Madhav Netralaya by implementing a robust screening program for preterm infants. This initiative is crucial to prevent blindness and improve the quality of life for these children by adding quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and reducing disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). In addition to clinical interventions, the project seeks to create awareness and build capacity in both the hospital and the broader public health ecosystem.

STRENGTHENING THE LOW VISION AND REHABILITATION CENTRE:
The centre is equipped with advanced detection tools and assistive devices to cater to patients with low vision. The objective is not only to provide these aids but also to train optometrists to deliver targeted interventions, ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals with non-curable visual impairments.

COMMUNITY OPHTHALMOLOGY:
Extending beyond the hospital, the project supports community ophthalmology services, including the provision of an ambulance to conduct vision screening camps in underserved areas. This outreach is vital for early detection and treatment of eye conditions in rural and remote communities, ensuring equitable access to eye care services.

LIBRARY AND RESEARCH SUPPORT:
To foster continuous learning and research, the project supports the establishment of an Ophthalmology Library and provides grants for research and paper presentations at national and international conferences. This is aimed at advancing knowledge and practices in infant and childhood blindness.

IMPACT:
The project has positively impacted thousands of individuals by restoring vision, preventing blindness, and fostering advancements in ophthalmology. With a strong network of healthcare professionals and volunteers, the initiative continues to expand its reach and effectiveness.