Economic Impact of Eye Health Investment in India
India could significantly boost its economy by investing in basic eye health measures. The potential addition to the economy is estimated at Rs 3.6 trillion annually, as per a new research report released ahead of World Sight Day 2025.
Key Findings from the Value of Vision Report
- The report is a collaboration by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), Seva Foundation, and the Fred Hollows Foundation.
- Investment in eye health provides a significant return—Rs 16 for every Rs 1 spent.
- A proposed investment of Rs 22,100 crore could lead to annual economic gains of over Rs 3.6 lakh crore.
- Projected benefits include:
- Rs 2.27 trillion from improved productivity.
- Rs 78,700 crore from higher employment levels.
- Rs 40,800 crore from reduced caregiving costs.
- India has nearly 70 crore people living with avoidable sight loss, one of the highest globally.
Personal and Economic Costs of Poor Vision
Poor vision leads to lost income, educational setbacks, mental health challenges, and caregiving burdens, especially affecting women.
Expert Opinions
- Peter Holland, CEO of IAPB, emphasized preventing sight loss through affordable interventions like sight tests and cataract surgery.
- Elizabeth Kurian, of Mission for Vision, stressed the importance of strengthening eye care infrastructure for India's growth and inclusion goals.
Key Priorities for Governments
- Early detection through community screenings.
- Instant reading glass distribution.
- Expanding the eye health workforce.
- Improving surgical productivity and reducing barriers to care.
- Enhancing cataract surgery standards.
Case Studies and Campaigns
A highlighted case study involves Tula, a 19-year-old from Maharashtra, who regained sight and returned to college due to receiving glasses at an eye camp.
The IAPB’s Love Your Eyes campaign promotes regular eye checks and integration of eye health into national strategies, emphasizing it as a cost-effective tool to enhance economic productivity and quality of life.
