Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
NAB's Blind and Eye Care Centre inaugurated in Mohali
Babushahi Bureau
Mohali, April 23, 2024: With the funding support of the Embassy of Japan in India under Grant Assistance for Grassroots projects, the National Association for the Blind inaugurated its new building of the Institute for the Blind and an Eye Care Centre at Chandpur, Block Majri, on main Siswan-Kurali Highway, Mohali.
This funding support came from the People of Japan which reflects the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between Japan and India. This Institute stands as a symbol of shared commitment of both these nations, towards bettering the lives of those in need.
This momentous event marked a significant milestone in NAB’s mission to provide comprehensive services to Persons with Disabilities and eye care services to the community under their Prevention & Cure program. Earlier, phase 1 of the Institute building was completed with the support of the SBI Foundation.
More than 10,000 sq ft area is now available for welfare activities for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and the disadvantaged. Free Eye camps are a regular feature from the Eye Care center of this Institute and Occupational Therapy is now available for Persons with Multiple Disabilities.
The Institute was inaugurated by Mr. KODERA Jiro, Counsellor of the Economic Section in the Embassy of Japan in India in the presence of Mr. NISHI Ryuhei, First Secretary.
Dr. S.S Pandav world renowned Glaucoma expert and Head of Advance Eye Centre, PGI, Mr Madhukar Malhotra, Past District Governor, of Rotary Club of Chandigarh, and a distinguished 18 members team from TaskUs, also graced the occasion with their presence.
TaskUs has been supporting the furnishing of the Eye Care & Occupational Therapy Centre and other equipment required at the Centre for the last 3 years.
A free eye check-up camp was also organized at the premises in association with Advance Eye Centre, PGI, in which eye check-ups of students of government schools and other general public was carried out. Free Spectacles were also distributed to the needy.
This Institute for the Blind aims to empower individuals with visual impairment through education, vocational training, training in assistive technology, rehabilitation and employment opportunities for Persons with disabilities and the disadvantaged. It is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and staffed by a team of skilled professionals.
The Chief Guest, Mr. KODERA Jiro, from Embassy of Japan said that “Japan is committed to fostering strong partnerships for global welfare. Our support to the Institute for the Blind and Eye Care Centre reflects our shared values with India.”
NAB Hony President Vinod Chadha said“We are indebted to the Embassy of Japan in India and the People of Japan for their magnanimous contribution for construction of our Institute building. The benevolence of the people of Japan has not only fortified the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our countries but also illuminated the path towards a brighter future for those we serve.”
Dr. S.S Pandav, Head, Advance Eye Centre said “We are happy to collaborate with National Association for the Blind for this noble endeavour of organizing free eye camps. Together, we will create a brighter future for those in need of eye care.”
NAB is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Persons with visual and other disabilities. With a mission to promote inclusivity and accessibility, the organization strives to create a place where visually impaired individuals can thrive and reach their full potential.