National Programme for Control of Blindness & Visual Impairment (NPCBVI)
About NPCBVI
National Programme for Control of Blindness & Visual Impairment (NPCBVI) was launched in the year 1976 as a 100% Centrally Sponsored scheme with the goal to reduce the prevalence of blindness from 1.4% to 0.3%. As per Survey in 2001-02, prevalence of blindness is estimated to be 1.1%. Rapid Survey on Avoidable Blindness conducted under NPCBVI during 2006-07 showed reduction in the prevalence of blindness from 1.1% (2001-02) to 1% (2006-07). Various activities/initiatives undertaken during the Five Year Plans under NPCBVI are targeted towards achieving the goal of reducing the prevalence of blindness to 0.3% by the year 2020.
Goals & Objectives of NPCBVI in the XII Plan
To reduce the backlog of blindness through identification and treatment of blind at primary, secondary and tertiary levels based on assessment of the overall burden of visual impairment in the country.
Develop and strengthen the strategy of NPCBVI for “Eye Health” and prevention of visual impairment; through provision of comprehensive eye care services and quality service delivery.
Strengthening and upgradation of RIOs to become centre of excellence in various sub-specialities of ophthalmology
Strengthening the existing and developing additional human resources and infrastructure facilities for providing high quality comprehensive Eye Care in all Districts of the country;
To enhance community awareness on eye care and lay stress on preventive measures;
Increase and expand research for prevention of blindness and visual impairment
To secure participation of Voluntary Organizations/Private Practitioners in eye Care
