GMDC-GVT brings clear vision to rural Odisha: Mega eye care drive for 3,000 students in Chhendipada

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

ANGUL, NOVEMBER 7, 2025

In a remarkable stride toward ensuring better health and education for rural children, Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation (GMDC), through its CSR arm Gramin Vikas Trust (GVT), has launched a large-scale free eye care campaign for students in Odisha’s Chhendipada block of Angul district. The initiative, which includes free eye check-ups and distribution of spectacles, will benefit nearly 3,000 students across 21 schools in the project and peripheral areas of the Baitarani West Coal Block.

The campaign was inaugurated on Friday at Chhendipada High School by Kasturi Sha, Block Development Officer (BDO) of Chhendipada, who commended GMDC-GVT for their proactive commitment to community health. “Good vision is crucial for learning and personal development. This initiative by GMDC-GVT will not only improve students’ eyesight but also empower them to achieve their academic potential,” she said while addressing the gathering.

The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including Dr. Mahamilan Murmu, Chief Medical Officer of the Chhendipada Community Health Centre; Shatrughna Pradhan, Block Education Officer and Headmaster of Chhendipada High School; Sudipta Pradhan, Sarpanch of Chhendipada Gram Panchayat; and senior officials from GMDC.

The Vision Spring Foundation (VSF), a Delhi-based expert organization in eye care, has partnered with GMDC-GVT to carry out detailed eye examinations for students and teachers. The program ensures that individuals diagnosed with vision issues receive corrective spectacles free of cost, thereby addressing one of the key yet often overlooked barriers to effective learning among rural students.

Officials from GMDC-GVT highlighted that the campaign reflects the corporation’s broader vision of promoting holistic community development through health and education initiatives. By prioritizing preventive healthcare, GMDC-GVT aims to foster a generation of healthier, more confident, and academically capable children in its project-affected areas.