Dr Jitendra visits ‘Op Drishti’ camp at Northern Command hospital

Jammu, Nov 20: Union Minister of State in PMO Dr Jitendra Singh Thursday lauded the Indian Army for conducting the first of its kind and state-of-the-art 3-day mega cataract camp in the Super-Speciality Command Hospital in Udhampur.

The Minister was on a visit to the Army’s Northern Command Hospital to conduct a comprehensive review of the medical services and facilities being provided to patients.

The visit was part of the Command Hospital’s Operation Drishti under which a free eye camp is being organised from November 19 to 21, 2025 at the facility.

Dr Jitendra lauded the Indian Army for its multifaceted role, stating that while its (Army’s) service during wartime was exceptional, its contribution to humanity and dedication to serving society in times of peace was equally immense. He emphasised that the Armed Forces not only safeguarded the nation but also extended critical healthcare and humanitarian services, reflecting their unwavering commitment to the welfare of citizens.

“Its dedication to serving humanity during peacetime, especially by providing advanced healthcare to civilians and defence personnel alike, reflects its core ethos of service and commitment,” he said.

During the visit, Dr Jitendra toured the Department of Ophthalmology, where he was briefed on the hospital’s state-of-the-art facilities, patient care programmes, and ongoing free eye-screening initiatives.

He personally interacted with patients undergoing treatment, including senior citizens and local residents, offering encouragement and acknowledging the dedication of the medical and support staff.

The Union Minister, joined by Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma and other senior Army officers, also visited several patient wards to interact directly with patients, emphasising the importance of empathy and human touch in medical treatment alongside advanced technology.

Dr Jitendra emphasized that the Command Hospital’s outreach programs, including free medical and eye screenings for the local population, represented a tangible example of the Army’s role in nation-building and humanitarian service.

The Minister noted that such initiatives strengthened public trust in the Armed Forces and demonstrated the organization’s multi-faceted contribution to society.

He also reviewed the hospital’s cutting-edge medical equipment, including the 3-D microscope, which enables highly precise ophthalmic surgeries. He was briefed on how this and other advanced diagnostic tools helped ensure accuracy and efficiency in treatment.

Later speaking to media persons, the Union Minister stated that such advanced equipment across the country was being used by the Northern Command for the first time.

Dr Jitendra stated that modern technology formed the backbone of world-class healthcare. “Facilities like this not only elevate the standard of care but also provide patients with the confidence that they are receiving the most accurate and effective treatment available,” the Minister stated.