The highlight of the event was the return of renowned ophthalmologist Dr. Ashok Sharma, Medical Superintendent of the Cornea Centre, Chandigarh, to his roots. Dr. Sharma, who had received his early education at the Primary School in Pangna, expressed heartfelt joy at returning to serve his hometown after nearly fifty years. Accompanied by his ophthalmologist son and brother, he emphasized the emotional and professional significance of the occasion.
Dr. Sharma was joined by a highly skilled team from Lions Eye Hospital, Bangalore, including eye specialists Dr. Rajan Sharma, Dr. Mehta, and support staff Agnivesh and Kuleshwar. The team conducted free eye examinations and distributed essential medications and corrective eyeglasses to those in need.
The camp saw active participation from local dignitaries. MLAs Randhir Sharma and Rakesh Jamwal attended the event as Chief Guests. Former MLA of Karsog region, Heera Lal, presided over the program. In his address, MLA Randhir Sharma praised Dr. Ashok Sharma’s continued commitment to his roots and lauded his selfless service as an example for the younger generation. MLA Rakesh Jamwal highlighted the humility and inspiration drawn from Dr. Sharma’s life dedicated to medical service.
The camp provided medical aid to people from several remote and hilly panchayats including Pangna, Kalashan, Masog, Sorta, Sui-Kufridhar, Nihri, Paresi, Ghadhoi, Jarl, Bahi-Sarhi, Seeni-Galyog, Badhu-Kandhi, Kaneri-Mahog, Bakhraut, Churag, Khil-Shorsan, Belardhar, Jachh-Kandha, Katwahchi, and Mashogal. For many, the camp was a much-needed opportunity to receive eye care in a region with limited medical access.
The event was graced by numerous local representatives and social workers, including Panchayat Samiti Members Charandas and Basanti Devi; up Pradhan of Pangna Suresh Sharma; Nirmal Thakur (Pradhan, Kalashan), Krishan (up Pradhan, Belardhar), Mahesh Kumar (up Pradhan, Balindi), and Krishan Lal (up Pradhan, Bahi-Sarhi). Co-organizers Karamchand Gupta and Chaman Lal Gupta, along with social worker Dr. Jagdish Sharma and Ward Member Padma Gupta, were also present. All Ward Members of Pangna Panchayat attended and contributed to the success of the event.
The role of National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers was particularly commendable in the smooth functioning of the camp. So far, eye screenings have been conducted for 180 women and 120 men, with free medications and eyeglasses provided to patients.
The event not only brought specialized medical services to underserved areas but also rekindled community spirit, with a heartfelt reminder of the importance of giving back to one’s roots.
