October 9, 2025

Did you know that 70 crore Indians are living with sight loss that could be avoided? Yes, it's true! This huge number is not just a health problem—it hurts the economy, jobs, education, and even mental health. The Value of Vision report by IAPB, the Seva Foundation, and the Fred Hollows Foundation reveals the shocking costs of this issue. Sight loss leads to many troubles. People lose jobs, children miss out on education, incomes go down, and women carry a bigger burden taking care of those with vision problems. Plus, mental health suffers and injury risks go up. The report was launched during the United Nations General Assembly and released on World Sight Day, October 9, 2025. It shows that if India invests ₹22,210 crore in fighting this challenge, it could gain a whopping ₹3.6 lakh crore in return! Imagine that— a ₹2.27 lakh crore boost from better work productivity, ₹78,700 crore from more jobs, and ₹40,800 crore saved on caregiving costs. Plus, the country could prevent 65,000 transport injuries and deaths. The report also points out six smart steps to tackle sight loss: early vision checks, giving out glasses, training more eye health workers, improving cataract surgeries, removing access hurdles, and using new training techniques with better machines. Elizabeth Kurian, Chief Functionary and Trustee of Mission for Vision, India, says, "About 1 billion people in low- and middle-income countries experience avoidable vision loss daily. Still, most of this can be addressed through some of the most cost-effective interventions: cataract surgery and glasses." So, it's clear! With right investments and smart strategies, India can brighten the lives of crores, save money, and build a healthier future for everyone.

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Tags: Avoidable sight loss, India vision health, Economic impact, Eye care interventions, World sight day,