Thirty-four students of TM Government Higher Secondary School (TMGHSS), Kohima, received free spectacles from the Department of Health and Family Welfare on Monday under the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCB and VI).
Speaking at the distribution programme, Dr Phyantsuthung, Joint Director and Programme Officer, NPCB and VI, highlighted the department’s key initiatives, including cataract prevention, provision of reading glasses for senior citizens, school-based eye screening and promotion of eye donation.
He said the department has been receiving encouraging support from schools for student eye screening. He explained that an autorefractor, a computerised eye testing device, is used to ensure accurate screening before free spectacles are provided to beneficiaries.
Dr Phyantsuthung informed the gathering that the state aims to identify 7,200 beneficiaries during the 2026-27 financial year. He also advised students to wear their spectacles regularly, reduce screen time and take proper care of their eyesight.
TMGHSS Principal Kelhikha Kenye thanked the Department of Health and Family Welfare for providing free spectacles and creating awareness among students and teachers on maintaining good eye health to prevent visual impairment.
The programme was also attended by Vice Principal Er Khriezosietuo Suohu and Graduate Teacher Liza Zhimomi.