FMRI strengthens its Hospital Cornea Retrieval Program and highlights corneal blindness challenges during National Eye Donation Fortnight
Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI) marked National Eye Donation Fortnight (August 25 – September 8) with a remarkable milestone – securing over 500 eye donation pledges, a strong step forward in combating corneal blindness through increased awareness and participation.
The campaign featured a multi-pronged approach to advocacy. A dedicated symposium brought together ophthalmology experts to bust myths and misconceptions that often prevent individuals from pledging. Pledge booths were set up at the Fortis Eye Institute OPD, and a special geriatric health event saw hundreds of senior citizens step forward to support the cause.
India faces a significant challenge in addressing corneal blindness. According to the Indian Journal of Ophthalmology (2023), nearly 100,000 corneal transplants are required annually, necessitating around 200,000 donor corneas due to limited utilization. Corneal blindness remains the second leading cause of blindness among those over 50 and the leading cause among younger populations.
Dr. Parul Sharma, Principal Director & HOD, Fortis Eye Institute, said:
“There are approximately 11 lakh corneal blind individuals in India, with nearly 25,000 new cases added each year. Bridging this demand-supply gap requires sustained awareness and public participation. FMRI remains committed to promoting the Hospital Cornea Retrieval Program and ensuring timely interventions for those in need.”
She further highlighted key challenges such as myths around eye donation, family refusals, cultural hesitations, delays in notifying eye banks within the critical six-hour retrieval window, and a shortage of trained counsellors and infrastructure.
Yashpal Rawat, Facility Director, Fortis Gurgaon, added:
“Vision is one of the most precious senses. Through our skilled team of corneal surgeons and counsellors, we are dedicated to restoring sight and improving quality of life for patients and families.”
The initiative saw enthusiastic participation from younger generations, who leveraged social media, campus drives, street plays, and tech-enabled pledge tools to normalize eye donation and influence family decisions.
At an institutional level, Fortis continues to strengthen its Hospital Cornea Retrieval Program (HCRP), working closely with ICU teams, grief counsellors, and eye bank professionals to ensure timely tissue retrieval and maximize transplant success – furthering the mission of sight restoration across India.
