The Government of Himachal Pradesh has partnered with online bus ticketing platform redBus and VisionSpring Foundation to launch the Himachal Pradesh vision care initiative, a transformative effort to deliver vision care services to underserved Himalayan communities.

Targeting 5,000 people, this initiative provides eye screenings and eyeglass distribution to bridge a critical gap in eye care access.

In Himachal Pradesh, 3 million people lack proper vision care, part of India’s 550 million residents without necessary corrective eyewear.

Studies show eyeglasses can boost earning potential by up to 33.4% and increase productivity by 32%. The Himachal Pradesh vision care initiative addresses this need, empowering communities with clearer vision and brighter futures.

From Oct. 9-18, VisionSpring teams, government officials, and health experts are trekking across Shimla and Kinnaur districts, reaching remote areas like Chitkul, India’s first village, and hazardous mountain roads near Reckong Peo. This Clear Vision Trek, a cornerstone of the Himachal Pradesh vision care initiative, marks the 25th anniversary of VisionSpring founder Jordan Kassalow’s journey that inspired the organization’s mission.

“Everyone has the right to see clearly, no matter where they live,” Kassalow said, emphasizing the trek’s goal to deliver “life-changing eyeglasses across some of the most challenging terrain on earth.”

The Himachal Pradesh vision care initiative includes three transformative programs: See to Earn for working adults, See to Learn for students, and See to be Safe for commercial vehicle drivers navigating mountainous roads. These efforts ensure comprehensive vision care tailored to diverse needs.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the Clear Vision Trek in Shimla on Oct. 9, aligning with World Sight Day celebrations. Partners like the National Programme for Control of Blindness & Visual Impairment, World Health Organization, and Indiahikes bolster this transformative Himachal Pradesh vision care initiative, setting a model for accessible healthcare in remote regions.