41st Free Eye Checkup and Cataract Surgery Camp September 14

SOS/SKRM 41st Free Eye Camp helps restore vision for several hundreds

New Delhi: Continuing its mission to eradicate avoidable blindness and work toward the betterment of the society, Science of Spirituality (SOS)/Sawan Kirpal Ruhani Mission (SKRM) organized the 41st Free Eye Checkup and Cataract Surgery Camp at Kirpal Bagh, Delhi, from September 14 to 21, 2025. Held under the divine guidance of SOS/SKRM head Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj, the camp helped hundreds of people regain their vision, transforming lives across Delhi NCR and northern India.

Cataract remains one of the major causes of visual impairment, particularly in underserved communities, impacting both livelihoods and quality of life. This year’s camp brought the precious gift of sight to 1,200 patients. The humanitarian effort was made possible through the collective service of volunteer physicians from the United States, who travel to India twice a year for this cause, along with expert doctors from ICARE Hospital, Noida, a leading institution with advanced eye care facilities.

The eight-day camp was made possible through the tireless dedication of volunteers from India and the US — all coming together to bring this noble cause to successful completion.

The medical camp identified, assessed and treated patients in need of cataract surgery, who would otherwise be unable to afford such treatment. These camps are a long-standing tradition of SOS/SKRM, conducted twice a year as part of the International Human Unity Conference (February) and the Global Conference on Mysticism (September).

Compassion in Action

On the opening day, large numbers of patients lined up at Kirpal Bagh grounds, where dedicated volunteers and medical teams carefully screened each individual. A total of 2,771 people were assessed with 1,685 found eligible for cataract surgeries. Patients received complimentary housing, nutritious meals, transportation, reading glasses and essential provisions to ensure holistic care.

During the camp, SKRM volunteers assisted with patient registration and oversaw logistical arrangements to ensure smooth operations. Patients scheduled for surgery were provided complimentary accommodation and meals at Kirpal Bagh. Transportation to the ICARE Eye Hospital in Noida was facilitated through buses arranged by the hospital, where an in-house team of highly skilled doctors and staff, along with volunteer eye surgeons from the United States, performed cataract-removal surgeries utilizing advanced-quality lenses.

In addition, SKRM volunteers worked diligently throughout the camp to manage on-ground requirements and administrative tasks. Following surgery, patients were provided with reading glasses and other essential amenities, ensuring continued support in their recovery.

Restoring Dignity, Renewing Lives

For the patients, it marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

Delhi’s Jogender Pal shared how a successful cataract surgery will “help him lead an independent life.” He explained, “I came to know about the Free Eye Camp through my relatives and decided to visit. I had cataract in both eyes and was unable to see clearly, particularly from the left eye. I am happy that I will no longer be dependent on anyone and can now lead a better quality of life.”

Sheela, another patient from Delhi, expressed joy in finding a “new lease of life”, saying the surgery will help her live independently. “I live all alone and this surgery will help me enhance my quality of life,” she said.

Narang Devi from Delhi, who was going through a traumatic experience as she often tripped on the roads and struggled to take care of her basic needs, expressed relief. “Now, I will be self-reliant,” said a beaming Narang Devi.

For many others, the initiative offered a path to confidence, independence and the ability to resume their livelihoods with renewed vigor.

Hands that Heal

For the doctors, too, it was a fulfilling experience. “It is a blessing to be able to serve others with the skills God has given me,” said one of the US-based volunteer physicians.

Added another, “Light is God’s first gift to the world; restoring sight lets that light shine again.”

Highlighting the larger impact, another doctor emphasized: “Volunteering reminds me that sometimes, the simplest gift — the ability to see — can change a life forever.”

A Tradition of Selfless Service

Over the years, SKRM/SOS have helped more than 21,000 people regain their eyesight through such initiatives. All medical and eye camps are offered entirely free of charge, rooted in the spirit of selfless service and compassion for humanity.