To Be Announced on the International Day for World Without Childhood Blindness – January 31, 2026, at the UK Parliament
Our Bureau
Morgantown, WV / New Delhi / London
The Eye Foundation of America (EFA) has announced a landmark commitment of USD 1 million to initiate India’s National Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) Program, a nationwide movement to prevent avoidable childhood blindness in premature infants.
EFA is in advanced discussions with Lions International and Rotary International for a joint rollout across India — uniting global humanitarian leaders behind a powerful shared mission: a world without childhood blindness.
The initiative will be formally presented at the commemoration of the International Day for a World Without Childhood Blindness on January 31, 2026, at the Parliament of the United Kingdom, London.
Leadership at the Highest Level
EFA announced that:
- Lord Rami Ranger, EFA Patron, will serve as Chair of the 2026 commemoration at the House of Lords.
- Dr. V.K. Raju, Founder President of EFA and visionary of this global movement, will serve as Co-Chair.
This reflects extraordinary global alignment and high-level endorsement for a mission that began nearly five decades ago.
Statement from Lord Rami Ranger, Chair, 2026 Commemoration
“It is an honour to chair this historic gathering at the House of Lords. The work of the Eye Foundation of America represents humanity at its best — serving the most vulnerable and giving the gift of sight to children who deserve every opportunity in life. By bringing together global partners, we are not just treating a condition; we are creating hope for generations to come.”
— Lord Rami Ranger, EFA Patron
A Vision Rooted in 1977: Dr. V.K. Raju’s Lifelong Mission
The global movement toward a World Without Childhood Blindness began on January 31, 1977, when Dr. V.K. Raju conducted his first eye camp in Vijayawada, India. That spark has grown into a worldwide mission that continues to save sight and transform lives.
Statement from Dr. V.K. Raju, Founder President, EFA
“What began as one eye camp in 1977 has become a global mission of compassion and service. Our USD 1 million commitment, and our collaboration with Lions and Rotary, marks a defining milestone in protecting the sight of India’s newborns. Together, we can ensure that every child has the chance to see a brighter future.”
Major Philanthropic Leadership: Dr. Sam Maddula
EFA also confirmed that Dr. Sam Maddula, distinguished Board Member and humanitarian, will be a major donor supporting the National ROP Program.
Statement from Dr. Sam Maddula
“Every child deserves the gift of sight. Supporting this national ROP initiative is a pledge to India’s future. When EFA, Lions, and Rotary unite, we create a transformative force for children, families, and communities across the nation.”
Global Forces Unite for a World Without Childhood Blindness
The January 31, 2026 event will bring together a powerful coalition:
- Lions International & LCIF
- Rotary International
- United Nations–aligned health and education bodies
- Commonwealth leaders
- Philanthropic foundations, CSR partners, and global child-health experts
This global convergence represents a unified commitment to serve together and create hope together.
Message from EFA President, Dr. Leela V. Raju
“Our USD 1 million commitment is a call to action to protect the most vulnerable infants. With support from Lions International, Rotary International, Dr. Sam Maddula, and the leadership of Lord Rami Ranger and Dr. V.K. Raju, we are building a national model that can eliminate childhood blindness caused by ROP.”
About Eye Foundation of America (EFA)
Founded in 1977, EFA works to eliminate avoidable blindness and provide equitable, compassionate eye care to underserved communities. EFA has impacted more than 3 million lives through missions, training, and global partnerships.
