Kanti Velugu program re-starts from 18th January 2023

Telangana CM KCR has announced re start of the Kanti velugu program throughout the state from 18th January 2023. The scheme was reviewed by KCR and the screening of eyes was to be carried out as the screen-time across the population has seen a rise after Covid 19.

With increased digital exposure, more time indoors and family history of eye problems it was felt important that the scheme must be re-started.

The scheme was launched on 15th August 2018 in Malkapur of Medak district, with the plan to have regular eye checkup camps at regular intervals.

The government spent 106 crore rupees in the first phase, which lasted five months. As part of the scheme, screenings were conducted, and medicines and other equipment like spectacles were given based on the diagnosis. Surgeries or other treatments were also arranged free of cost. Apart from medical help, awareness was also brought about eye health and diseases.

Family history of myopia

35 percent of the cases where eye=problems are diagnosed is due to the genes. Most of them do not have the habit of eye-check up's and mostly come to the centres much later. With children myopia has seen a rise as there is an increased screen time due to online digital classes.

This digital inclination has led to further use of the screen for purposes of entertainment and other aspects. In rural areas, these conditions are often undiagnosed and the scheme helped in identifying most of the cases in younger people too.

Health officials gear up for the scheme

With an experience of 2018, the health officials are now ready with the data of the camps that were organized earlier and accordingly teams will be made ready for the camps.

Health minister Harish Rao in the high-level review meeting is to also involve other department representatives to ensure maximum participation and maximum benefit for the people.