A specialized ophthalmic team, merging expertise from the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, has accomplished over 100 complex eye surgeries on the very first day of the Mega Advanced Surgical Eye Camp at the 12 Air Force Hospital in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. This initiative, held on February 24, 2026, aims to provide advanced eye care services to serving personnel, veterans, and civilians in the region.
The surgical team was led by Brigadier (Dr) Sanjay Kumar Mishra, who serves as the Consultant and Head of Department of Ophthalmology at Army Hospital (Research & Referral). Under his guidance, the team successfully performed advanced cataract operations, minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries, and complex retinal procedures using cutting-edge medical technology. The necessary equipment and surgical infrastructure were airlifted to Gorakhpur by Indian Air Force aircraft, allowing for the establishment of world-class treatment facilities within the military hospital.
In response to growing demand, extensive screening processes are currently underway for ex-servicemen, serving dependents, and economically disadvantaged civilians. Medical teams are diligently conducting diagnostic evaluations to identify patients who require surgical intervention. With plans for over 300 surgeries throughout the duration of the camp, the initiative is set to benefit a significant number of patients before it wraps up on February 27, 2026.
The camp’s inaugural ceremony featured prominent attendees, including the Director General Armed Forces Medical Services, Surg Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, and the Director General Medical Services (Air), Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja. Their presence highlighted the significance of the initiative and reaffirmed the Armed Forces Medical Services’ commitment to providing high-quality specialized medical care beyond traditional military settings.
This outreach effort showcases the Armed Forces’ continuous dedication not only to national security but also to social welfare and resilience. The elite ophthalmic team has a proven history of clinical excellence, having previously conducted six successful surgical camps in diverse and challenging terrains, including the Himalayan foothills, remote areas of Jammu, and border regions of Kutch. The ongoing camp in Gorakhpur further emphasizes the government’s commitment to delivering advanced healthcare to remote and underserved populations throughout the country.
