Japan Extends Grant Assistance for Eye Medical Equipment in Vrindavan

New Delhi, March 21, 2025 

In a significant step towards enhancing healthcare services for underprivileged communities, the Embassy of Japan in India hosted the signing ceremony for the Grant Contracts (G/C) under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects (GGP) scheme. The agreement, titled “The Project for the Provision of Eye Medical Equipment in Vrindavan,” aims to improve eye care facilities in the region.

Ono Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan  to India and Anil Kumar Bhatnagar, Naujhil Integrated Rural Project for Health and Development

The signing ceremony took place at the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi, Keiichi Ono, Ambassador of Japan to India, formally signing the contract alongside Anil Kumar Bhatnagar, Director, Naujhil Integrated Rural Project for Health and Development (NIRPHAD)

Strengthening Grassroots Healthcare Through GGP

The Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects (GGP) is a financial aid program initiated by the Government of Japan in 1989. It provides support for small-scale community projects in developing countries, addressing essential human needs such as healthcare, education, and welfare. Implemented through Japanese diplomatic missions, GGP has significantly contributed to local development efforts worldwide.

The project signed under this initiative will facilitate the purchase of advanced eye medical equipment for the Vrindavan region in Uttar Pradesh, amounting to approximately 8.1 million Yen. This support will play a crucial role in enhancing medical services for individuals suffering from vision-related ailments, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds.

In India, an estimated 4.95 million people are visually impaired, and approximately 35 million have visual disorders, primarily due to cataracts and other eye diseases. The recipient organization operates an ophthalmic hospital in Vrindavan, providing minimal to free-cost medical consultations, diagnosis, and surgeries to underprivileged patients. However, the shortage of medical equipment has resulted in unfavourable situations, such as prolonged waiting times and patients having to seek treatment or diagnosis at distant hospitals, which have caused worsening patients’ conditions in some cases.

A Testament to Japan-India Friendship

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Keiichi Ono emphasized the importance of grassroots-level collaborations in strengthening bilateral ties. He expressed confidence that the grant will not only improve healthcare services in Vrindavan but also serve as a symbol of the enduring friendship and cooperation between Japan and India.

The Government of Japan remains committed to supporting development initiatives that uplift communities and improve lives. Through projects like these, Japan continues to reinforce its dedication to inclusive growth, healthcare accessibility, and humanitarian aid in India.

With this partnership, the people of Vrindavan can look forward to enhanced eye care services, ensuring better vision and improved quality of life for many in need.