Dharamshala: The Dharamshala-based Delek Hospital successfully organised its 23rd Free Annual Eye Surgery (Cataract) Camp from 24 December 2025 for three consecutive days, comprising comprehensive patient screening followed by cataract and other eye surgeries. The camp was conducted in collaboration with the Association for Ophthalmic Cooperation in Asia (AOCA), Japan, whose continued partnership has been instrumental in the success of this long-standing humanitarian initiative.

This annual camp forms part of Delek Hospital’s ongoing commitment under the Year of Compassion initiative to provide accessible and essential eye care services to poor and needy patients who are unable to afford treatment for one of the most vital sensory organs—the eyes. Through early detection and timely surgical intervention, the camp aims to prevent avoidable blindness and significantly improve patients’ quality of life.

During the camp, a total of 298 patients were screened, including 96 Tibetan patients, 200 Indian patients, and 2 foreign patients. Following detailed ophthalmic examinations, 50 patients underwent successful cataract surgeries, while 2 patients received pterygium surgery. All procedures were carried out with due care and professionalism, ensuring patient safety and post-operative follow-up.

The camp was made possible through the dedicated efforts of visiting Japanese ophthalmologists from AOCA, in close collaboration with the Delek Hospital medical and support staff. Their combined expertise, commitment, and compassionate service ensured the smooth execution of screenings, surgeries, and post-operative care.

The continued collaboration with AOCA, Japan, over the years has played a crucial role in making this free annual eye camp a success. By restoring vision and preventing further visual impairment, this initiative has brought renewed hope and independence to many patients and stands as a meaningful example of compassionate healthcare in action.

– Report filed by Department of Health, CTA