Reported by Laxman Sarma
Bordumsa: In a significant outreach initiative aimed at improving access to specialised healthcare in one of Arunachal Pradesh’s most remote frontier regions, the Arunachal Pradesh Police, in collaboration with the Primary Health Centre (PHC), Khimyung, organised a free eye screening camp near the Indo-Myanmar border on Saturday, benefiting around 100 residents.
The day-long camp was conducted by the Dibrugarh-based NGO Bright Vision NE and witnessed a steady flow of patients from Khimyung and nearby villages seeking diagnosis and treatment for various eye-related conditions. A team of ophthalmic specialists carried out detailed examinations and provided necessary medical consultations to the beneficiaries.
Free medicines were distributed to all patients, while spectacles were also provided to those requiring vision correction, courtesy of Hamjong Tangha, MLA of the 52-Changlang Legislative Assembly Constituency.
The initiative holds particular importance as specialized eye care services remain limited in several remote parts of Arunachal Pradesh, despite overall developmental progress in the state. Residents of these far-flung border areas often face major challenges in accessing advanced medical treatment due to difficult terrain, poor connectivity, and lack of specialized healthcare facilities.
Located close to the Indo-Myanmar border, Khimyung is among the remote administrative circles of Changlang district where access to specialist healthcare remains constrained. In this context, the camp provided local residents with a rare opportunity to receive professional eye examinations without the need to travel long distances.
Medical staff and personnel from PHC Khimyung played a crucial role in facilitating the smooth execution of the programme by providing logistical and administrative support throughout the event.
The initiative received widespread appreciation from the local community. Residents expressed gratitude to MLA Hamjong Tangha for donating spectacles and supporting the camp. They also lauded the efforts of the Arunachal Pradesh Police, particularly Changlang SP Kirli Padu, Khimyung Police Station OC Awash Mehta, and the station personnel for their active role in organising the programme.
The district health department and PHC staff were also acknowledged for their cooperation and support in ensuring the success of the outreach camp.
Border residents have urged authorities to conduct such healthcare initiatives regularly, highlighting their importance in improving medical access in remote and underserved regions.