Over 200 people, including students, doctors, staff, and members of the public, formed a human chain at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, TTK Road, to mark National Eye Donation Fortnight (August 25 – September 8). The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of pledging eyes for donation.

India has over 1.2 million people suffering from corneal blindness, but the number of donor corneas remains very low. Dr. S. Soundari, Regional Head – Clinical Services, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, said, “It is encouraging that more young people are pledging their eyes. Over 70% of our eye donation registrations come from people between 25 and 50 years old.”

Dr Agarwals Eye Bank, the second largest in India, receives over 2,500 transplant requests each year. In 2024, it collected 4,042 eyes, and from January to August 2025, it has already collected 2,255. The hospital follows a first-come, first-served policy but gives priority to younger patients and those blind in both eyes.

People can pledge their eyes at www.dragarwal.com/eye-donation

 or call the eye donation helpline at 94444 44844.