‘Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana’ Brings New Hope to Thousands of Patients: 3,524 Free Eye Surgeries

August 17, 2026

The Punjab Government’s ‘Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana’ is continuously expanding the scope of healthcare services across the state. The scheme is now proving to be a major source of relief for the treatment of eye ailments. Under this initiative, patients receive free eye surgeries at government and empanelled private hospitals, enabling timely treatment and significantly easing the financial burden, particularly for elderly patients.

Free Surgeries for 3,524 Patients

According to government data, 3,524 patients have undergone eye surgeries completely free of cost so far. The government has spent approximately ₹1.99 crore on these treatments. The scheme aims to provide modern eye care to the economically disadvantaged and prevent delays in treatment.

Highest Number of Cataract Surgeries

Data indicates that the highest number of procedures 3,070 were ‘Small Incision Cataract Surgeries’ using non-foldable intraocular lenses. Expenditure on these surgeries exceeded ₹1.54 crore, accounting for over 87 percent of all eye surgeries performed under the scheme. Experts note that cataracts are the leading cause of blindness among the elderly, and timely surgery can fully restore vision.

Free Treatment for Other Eye Conditions Too

The ‘Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana’ covers not only cataracts but also the free treatment of various other complex eye conditions. So far, 333 patients have undergone ‘Pterygium with Conjunctival Autograft’ surgery, costing ₹31.83 lakh. Additionally, the scheme includes services such as entropion and ectropion correction, pediatric lens surgery, glaucoma treatment, tear duct surgery, and squint correction surgery. Experts Say Modern Treatment Now Accessible to All

Dr. Munish Dhawan, Professor and Head of the Ophthalmology Department at Guru Gobind Singh Medical College, Faridkot, stated that the Chief Minister’s Health Scheme has brought modern eye treatment within the reach of the general public. He explained that under the scheme, patients are receiving the benefits of advanced techniques such as phacoemulsification cataract surgery and foldable intraocular lenses free of cost. Additionally, treatment for glaucoma, a condition that can lead to blindness if not treated in time, is also available free of charge.

Health Minister Urges Timely Treatment

Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh stated that the inclusion of empanelled private hospitals in the scheme has made modern eye treatment more accessible across the state. He urged the public not to ignore symptoms such as blurred vision, burning sensations in the eyes, persistent watering, or any abnormalities related to the eyelids, and to seek immediate medical advice.