AI SummaryWest Bengal government's Chokher Alo Scheme provides free eye treatment, cataract surgery and spectacles to senior citizens across the state. The scheme was launched in January 2021 and has already crossed 10 lakh cataract surgeries, with 15 lakh free spectacles given to school children and adults above 45 years.
The scheme runs under the National Programme for Control of Blindness & Visual Impairment (NPCB&VI) handled by the state health department. It makes sure every eligible person in West Bengal gets complete eye care without paying anything, with a long term aim of eye health for all.
WB Chokher Alo Scheme 2026
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched Chokher Alo Scheme to give senior citizens free eye treatment and spectacles. The scheme targets cataract operations for 20 lakh senior citizens and free spectacles for 8.25 lakh elderly people who will undergo the operation.
The state government also conducts eye tests for 10 lakh students, of whom 4 lakh get free spectacles. Anganwadi workers also get free eye testing under the scheme. Over 300 doctors and 400 optometry technicians are engaged for this purpose.
Free Eye Treatment / Spectacles to Senior Citizens
Under the scheme, senior citizens get free cataract surgery and spectacles. The government has set a target of eye health for all by 2025, and the scheme continues to cover more people through health camps and district health centres.
Latest Progress of Chokher Alo Scheme
Since its launch, the scheme has crossed 10 lakh cataract surgeries in West Bengal. The state has also provided 15 lakh free spectacles to school children and adults above 45 years. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee shared this update, noting the scheme has brought a big change in eye care across the state.
Su-Dristi Initiative in 2026
In August 2026, the state health department launched the Su-Dristi initiative, which builds on the existing NPCB&VI and Chokher Alo work. This new initiative is designed to strengthen eye health services across West Bengal, making sure no child or citizen is left behind for eye care.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Chokher Alo Scheme |
| Launched By | West Bengal State Government |
| Launched On | January 2021 |
| Beneficiaries | Senior citizens, students, anganwadi workers |
| Benefits | Free eye treatment, cataract surgery, spectacles |
| Official Website | wbhealth.gov.in |
How to Get Benefits of Chokher Alo Scheme
Eligible senior citizens can get the benefits by visiting their nearest district health centre or a Duare Sarkar camp. The eye check up and cataract surgery are done free of cost at government hospitals and empanelled health centres.
STEP 1 - Visit the nearest district health centre or a Duare Sarkar camp in your area.
STEP 2 - Get your eye test done by the doctor at the centre. The test is free for eligible citizens.
STEP 3 - If cataract surgery is needed, the health centre will schedule the operation. Spectacles are given free after the surgery.
Documents Required
Applicants need to carry a few basic documents to get the benefit of the scheme. These are listed below.
- Aadhaar card or any government ID proof for identity
- Residence proof such as a ration card or voter ID
- Swasthya Sathi card if available, for health records
FAQ's
Is the Chokher Alo Scheme still running in 2026?
Yes, the scheme is still running. The state has crossed 10 lakh cataract surgeries and continues to provide free spectacles to eligible senior citizens and students.
Who can get free spectacles under the scheme?
Senior citizens above 45 years who undergo cataract surgery and students who need spectacles can get them free under the scheme.
Source / Reference Link: West Bengal Health Department
My father is a senior citizen and having eye cataract. we are looking for this scheme 'Chokher Alo scheme'. He is not able to see properly. Can you help please?
My father is a senior citizen and having eye cataract. we are looking for this scheme ‘Chokher Alo scheme’. He is not able to see properly. Can you help please?
I want to know about the Chokher alo scheme.
Any branch in dumdum of chokher alo
I want to get cataract surgery of a person who is disabled and have no income Please provide me a contact number to help him out, Tried to fill the on line application but could not find the link Please help
I am a senior citizen and having eye cataract. I am looking for this scheme ‘Chokher Alo scheme’. I am not able to see properly. Can you help, please?