JOWAI: The office of the District Medical and Health Officer, West Jaintia Hills observed World Sight Day in Jowai on Friday.
Additional Deputy Commissioner R Manners, who was present as the chief guest, spoke about the importance of eye care.
“We need to take care of the eyes, as they are the windows to the soul,” she said.
Emphasising on the importance of the theme ‘Vision first’, she advised the students to take care of their eyes and to avoid using computers for extended periods of time.
To further raise awareness on blindness and visual impairment, a blind march was held and witnessed the participation of students and doctors of DMHO, ASHA. The march was flagged off by the chief guest.
Participants walked blindfolded carrying placards relating to eye-care awareness from Dai Masi Ladthadlaboh to Lumpariat Community. Later, an awareness programme, eye check-up and other activities were conducted. Prizes were also distributed to the winners of the poster competition.
The programme was chaired by J Shullai, Medical Officer I/c Ladthadlaboh Urban Health Centre.
Awareness lectures on eye care were delivered by VJ Laloo, District Nodal Officer NPCB&VI and C Nongtdu, Ophthalmologist Jowai Civil Hospital, Ialong.