On October 20, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, which is specifically designed to serve a wide population including residents from 20 districts in eastern Uttar Pradesh, as well as neighboring states like Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. The hospital, operated by Kanchi Math, will provide comprehensive consultations and treatments for various eye conditions and aims to perform around 30,000 free eye surgeries each year.
During the inauguration, PM Modi expressed that the eye hospital represents a harmonious blend of spirituality and modernity, serving both the elderly and the young4. He emphasized the transition of Varanasi into a significant healthcare hub in Uttar Pradesh, acknowledging the major healthcare reforms over the past decade that have enhanced facilities across the region.
The Prime Minister also noted the substantial growth in healthcare facilities in Varanasi, including modern hospitals and treatment centers, which now permit patients to receive quality care locally instead of traveling to larger cities. He highlighted the five pillars of India’s contemporary healthcare strategy: preventive healthcare, timely diagnosis, affordable treatments, enhanced medical facilities in smaller towns, and the integration of technology in health services.
In addition to the hospital, PM Modi’s visit included laying the foundation for numerous development projects in Varanasi amounting to approximately ₹6,100 crore, aimed at boosting local infrastructure and healthcare services.