Bengaluru, October 20, 2025 – In a proactive step toward combating vision impairments among the youth, the Department of Medical Education in Karnataka, partnering with the Nayonika Charitable Trust, unveiled the innovative “Nayonika” mobile app on World Sight Day, October 15. The launch, held at a vibrant ceremony in Bengaluru, underscores the state’s commitment to preventive healthcare, targeting early detection of eye conditions in school children through accessible, tech-driven screenings.

The app was inaugurated by Dr. Sujata Rathod, Director of Medical Education, Karnataka, who emphasized the critical role of timely interventions in preserving lifelong vision. “In an era where screen time dominates young lives, protecting our children’s eyes is not just a health priority—it’s a societal imperative,” Dr. Rathod stated during the event attended by educators, medical professionals, and representatives from over 20 schools. “The Nayonika app empowers our faculty to turn routine school visits into life-changing opportunities for early diagnosis and referral.”

A Digital Shield Against Vision Loss

Developed in response to rising concerns over uncorrected refractive errors, myopia, and other vision-related issues exacerbated by digital device usage, the Nayonika app is designed specifically for school-based eye health programs. It integrates seamlessly into the curriculum of medical colleges, enabling faculty from 24 institutions across Karnataka to conduct efficient, large-scale eye screenings.

Key features of the app include:

• Streamlined Screening Tools: Built-in modules for vision acuity tests, color blindness checks, and basic ocular health assessments, using smartphone cameras and simple peripherals.
• Real-Time Data Management: Faculty can log student data, generate reports, and track follow-ups, ensuring no case falls through the cracks.
• Referral Network Integration: Automated linkages to local optometrists, ophthalmologists, and government health centers for immediate referrals, with progress monitoring via push notifications.
• Educational Resources: Interactive modules for students and teachers on eye care hygiene, such as the 20-20-20 rule for screen breaks and nutrition tips for eye health.

The initiative aims to screen thousands of students annually, starting with pilot programs in urban and rural districts like Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Belagavi. Early data from trust-led surveys indicate that up to 15% of school-going children in Karnataka may have undetected vision problems, potentially impacting academic performance and quality of life.

Collaborative Effort Rooted in Compassion

The Nayonika Charitable Trust, a Bengaluru-based non-profit founded in 2018, has been at the forefront of community eye care, conducting over 50,000 free screenings in the past five years. “Our vision—pun intended—is a Karnataka where no child is left behind due to preventable blindness,” said Priya Sharma, Executive Director of the Trust. The partnership with the Department of Medical Education leverages the expertise of medical students and faculty, transforming theoretical knowledge into hands-on public service.

This launch aligns with global World Sight Day themes of “Love Your Eyes” and national goals under India’s National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment. Karnataka’s move comes amid a surge in pediatric ophthalmology cases, with a 2024 study by the Indian Journal of Ophthalmology reporting a 25% increase in myopia among urban children aged 6-15, largely attributed to pandemic-induced online learning.

Broader Impact and Future Horizons

Beyond immediate screenings, the app fosters awareness campaigns in schools, incorporating gamified quizzes and AR filters to engage Gen Alpha users. Schools integrated into the program will receive certification as “Eye-Safe Campuses,” incentivizing participation through state health grants.

Stakeholders hail the initiative as a model for scalable health tech in education. “It’s a game-changer for resource-strapped rural schools,” noted Dr. Anand Kumar, Dean of a participating medical college. “Faculty can now cover 200 students in a single session, up from the manual 50.”

As the app rolls out statewide, the Department plans to expand to 50 colleges by 2026, with multilingual support in Kannada, Hindi, and English to ensure inclusivity. For now, the Nayonika app is available for download on Android and iOS platforms, free for authorized medical personnel.

This launch not only illuminates the path to better eye health but also spotlights Karnataka’s innovative blend of technology, education, and empathy—ensuring that every child’s gaze toward the future remains crystal clear.

  Children’s Eye Health, mobile app, World Sight Day