KATHMANDU: Minister for Health and Population Pradip Paudel has said that Nepal has made remarkable progress in the field of eye health, positioning itself as a global example in ophthalmic care.
Addressing the ‘2030 In Sight Live Nepal’ conference—organized by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) and held for the first time in Nepal—Minister Paudel highlighted the country’s advancements in eye care, driven by innovation and modern technologies.
“Nepal has a proud legacy in eye care services, and our progress aligns with the global goals for eye health,” he stated.
The Minister noted that increasing urbanization, aging populations, and changing lifestyles have contributed to a growing demand for eye care services, particularly in South Asia, where blindness rates remain high. He expressed hope that the conference would generate impactful strategies to further strengthen ophthalmic services.
Minister Paudel emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding access to eye care across the country. He also underscored the importance of integrating eye health into the national healthcare system and fostering partnerships with schools, workplaces, and communities to ensure broader outreach and sustainability.
According to IAPB, the global eye health alliance comprises over 250 organizations across more than 100 countries, working toward universal access to quality eye care.
Following the 2024 IAPB Conference in Mexico, this year’s Nepal edition has drawn around 500 delegates from over 100 countries. The event aims to enhance international cooperation in the field, accelerate policy commitments, and strengthen collaboration across sectors.
