45 million Indians are visually handicapped.

12 million are totally blind - 1/5 of the world population of blind are Indians.

Around 4 million cataract cases are being added to the existing backlog anually.

To meet such a situation, it calls for efforts on war footing to establish community eye care programs for different regions of our country. To achieve this objective, the much required parameter is "trained and motivated human resource"

The National Institute of Community Ophthalmology, which Sankara Eye Centre plans to start at Coimbatore, will meet this important national need. At this institute, the entire work force, right from the grass root level field worker up to the eye surgeon identified from the respective regions, will be trained systematically, so that they go back and serve the people in that region.

The task ahead is huge - and towards achieving this objective, Sankara Eye Society appeals for your generous support and participation which could be towards any of the following activities...

Surgical Sponsorship - To perform surgeries on needy patients on a specified day that holds special meaning for you such as Birthday, Wedding Anniversary, Commemoration Day etc. Cataract Surgery with IOL Corneal Transplant 1 Surgery 1 Surgery Rs. 1000 Rs. 3000

Surgical Endowment - to create a fixed deposit and from the interest accrued perform surgeries on specified days in perpetuity. Cataract Surgery with IOL Corneal Transplant 1 Surgery 1 Surgery Rs. 10000 Rs. 30000

Annadhanam to provide for food for the patients on a specified day For 500 patients Per day Rs. 5000

Entire service activities of the hospital/day Total Care for 150 patients Per day Rs. 20000

Equipment Phaco emulsification unit Eximer Laser with Lasik Cataract Surgical Instrument Sets One One 30 sets Rs. 7.5 lakhs Rs. 120 lakhs Rs. 3 lakhs

Hospital Building and Support Facilities Administrative Blocks Quarters for Doctors and Staff Hostel accommodation for student trainees Computers, books and ophthalmic journals Computerisation 1500 sq.ft. 2500 sq.ft. 1250 sq.ft.   Rs. 7.5 lakhs Rs. 12.5 lakhs Rs. 6 lakhs Rs. 4 lakhs Rs. 15 lakhs

National Institute of Community Ophthalmology Capital Expenditure Recurring Expenditure CORPUS FUND - Target (Part contribution accepted)   Rs. 75 lakhs Rs. 25 lakhs Rs. 10 crores Contributions are to be made to "Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Medical Trust". Donations received are 100% exempt under Section 35 AC of the Income Tax Act of India.