Sightsavers India Honored at FICCI Road Safety Awards 2025
Sightsavers India was awarded at the 7th Edition of the FICCI Road Safety Awards & Symposium 2025, recognizing its efforts through the RAAHI – National Truckers Eye Health Programme, which aims to enhance the eye health of truck drivers and transport workers across India.
The ceremony featured Hon’ble Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, as the Chief Guest. In his speech, he highlighted the significance of eye health as a crucial factor in road safety, mentioning that regular eye screenings, cataract referrals, and access to spectacles can protect drivers’ livelihoods while enhancing overall road safety.
The RAAHI programme aligns with national objectives by promoting preventive eye health, contributing directly towards Sustainable Development Goal 3.6, and supporting the vision of Vision Zero for traffic safety.
Truck drivers often endure lengthy hours on the road under demanding conditions, with limited access to healthcare. Poor vision can contribute to fatigue, accidents, and financial instability. To mitigate these issues, Sightsavers India launched the RAAHI programme, establishing Drishti Kendras (Vision Centres) and mobile vision units, as well as organizing outreach camps for free eye screenings, spectacles, referrals, and treatment for drivers throughout the country.
Since its inception, the initiative has impacted over a million truck drivers, enabling them to work safely and effectively.
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The recognition from FICCI exemplifies not only Sightsavers India’s dedication but also the strength of teamwork with government agencies, industry partners, and local healthcare workers. Together, they enhance road safety by ensuring drivers maintain clear vision while driving responsibly.
RN Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India, expressed gratitude for the award, stating, “We are honored to receive this acknowledgment from FICCI, the oldest and largest apex industry body in India. Eye health is often neglected in road safety discussions, though it significantly affects drivers and all road users. Our achievements through RAAHI demonstrate what can be accomplished through collaboration with government, industry, and local partners, which is crucial for scaling services and providing timely care to drivers nationwide.”
As India strives towards Vision Zero, aimed at eradicating all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, initiatives like the RAAHI programme are essential in addressing preventable blindness within the transport sector, ensuring safer roads for truckers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.
