- In 2023, MITRA Samaj launched the Cataract Blindness Alleviation Project, which has already transformed the lives of 706 individuals through successful cataract surgeries. The project screened 5,731 people for eye health across seven provinces of Nepal and distributed 767 pairs of reading glasses. Funded entirely by Standard Chartered Bank, this project demonstrated MITRA Samaj’s ability to carry out large-scale, life-changing interventions in eye care. The success of this initiative highlights the organization’s expertise in managing and delivering quality cataract surgeries, as well as providing comprehensive post-operative care and vision correction services.
Through innovative projects in cataract surgery, corrective eyewear, and general eye care under Standard Chartered Bank’s CSR initiative, MITRA Samaj provides high-impact solutions that significantly improve quality of life. Its Cataract Blindness Alleviation Project, implemented with skilled medical partners, ensures effective surgeries and comprehensive follow-up care. MITRA Samaj also addresses refractive errors by distributing affordable reading glasses, enabling individuals—especially the elderly, students, and workers—to regain essential visual function. Together, these efforts advance education, health, and well-being by removing barriers to clear vision for Nepal’s most vulnerable populations.
MITRA Samaj has established itself as a key player in providing accessible and impactful eye health care to underserved communities across Nepal. With a commitment to improving the vision health of individuals in remote and rural areas, MITRA Samaj has successfully implemented a range of innovative projects focused on cataract surgery, corrective eyewear, and general eye care. The organization’s expertise lies in delivering large-scale, high-impact vision care services that significantly improve the quality of life for thousands of individuals who would otherwise have limited or no access to necessary treatment.
Expertise in Cataract Surgery and Eyeglasses Provision
MITRA Samaj’s work in cataract surgery and reading glasses distribution has had a profound impact on the lives of many Nepali citizens, particularly in rural regions where access to medical facilities is limited. Cataract blindness is one of the leading causes of visual impairment in Nepal, and MITRA Samaj has made significant strides in addressing this issue through its Cataract Blindness Alleviation Project. By partnering with local health institutions and utilizing trained medical professionals, MITRA Samaj ensures that cataract surgeries are performed effectively and that the post-surgery care is both comprehensive and accessible.
In addition to cataract care, MITRA Samaj has been instrumental in addressing refractive errors, such as myopia and hyperopia, by providing affordable and accessible corrective eyewear. Through strategic partnerships and an efficient supply chain, the organization ensures that reading glasses are distributed widely, allowing individuals to regain or improve their ability to read and perform everyday tasks. This service has been particularly transformative for the elderly, students, and working adults in rural areas who would otherwise be unable to afford or access these basic forms of vision correction. The core mission of these initiatives is to empower individuals with the ability to see clearly, thereby improving their educational outcomes, health, and overall well-being. By combining surgical interventions, corrective eyewear distribution, and community outreach, MITRA Samaj is effectively eliminating barriers to good vision, making a lasting impact on the lives of Nepal’s most vulnerable populations.
EXPERIENCE
- Building on the success of the cataract care project, MITRA Samaj expanded its focus to youth vision care with the launch of the Youthful Visions, Empowered Future initiative. Running between September 2024 and February 2025, this project was again supported by Standard Chartered Bank. The initiative reached 6,743 individuals, providing 2,515 pairs of eyeglasses, free medicines to 2,010 people, and referrals for advanced treatment to 81 individuals with more severe conditions. Additionally, the project conducted extensive awareness sessions across seven provinces, educating communities about the importance of eye health and the need for regular screenings. By addressing the vision needs of youth and their families, MITRA Samaj continues to empower the next generation and support their future success through clear vision.
- Currently, MITRA Samaj is implementing the Futuremakers: Empowering Youth Through Vision Care in Nepal project, launched in October 2025. This initiative is specifically designed to target school-age students, teachers, and community members, providing free eye screenings to address refractive errors, distributing medicines, offering referrals for advanced treatment, and running awareness campaigns. The project spans six provinces (excluding Bagmati) and aims to reach thousands of individuals in underserved regions, ensuring that every student and community member has access to the eye care they need. By focusing on the educational sector, MITRA Samaj is directly improving the learning environments of children, enabling them to thrive academically and reach their full potential.
