VisionSpring Foundation has partnered with The United Planters’ Association of Southern India (UPASI) to bring vision screenings and corrective eyeglasses to over 2,00,000 tea and coffee plantation workers and their families in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala by 2028. This collaboration is part of VisionSpring’s ‘Livelihoods in Focus’ programme, aimed at improving productivity and enhancing incomes in agricultural communities.
Agricultural workers, who often face vision challenges, rely heavily on clear sight for their daily tasks. The partnership seeks to address this critical need, with studies showing that providing eyeglasses can boost worker productivity by up to 32 per cent. VisionSpring estimates that the initiative could lead to a cumulative income increase of Rs 327 crore for workers in the region, further strengthening Southern India’s agricultural economy.
Anshu Taneja, Managing Director of VisionSpring Foundation, emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, “A significant number of plantation workers suffer from uncorrected vision problems. Through on-site eye camps, we aim to address these challenges and transform the lives of tea and coffee workers across Southern India. We deeply appreciate UPASI’s visionary approach and hope their support will inspire others to contribute to this mission.”
Since its inception, VisionSpring Foundation has provided vision care to 3,50,000 tea and coffee workers and their families. This collaboration builds on that success, with the goal of creating "clear vision regions" in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala by 2028.
Sanjit Nair, Secretary General of UPASI, highlighted the transformative impact of the initiative, stating, “Expanding vision correction to tea and coffee workers in these states is a pivotal step that not only enhances productivity and income but also empowers communities to thrive. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and complements the welfare and medical services already provided to workers and their families by plantations at no cost.”
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