In a moving salute to empathy and grassroots service, Sankara Nethralaya USA hosted a distinguished assembly to honor the remarkable impact of its Adopt-a-Village vision care programs. The occasion not only celebrated the numerous camps held in marginalized communities but also served as a thoughtful platform to gather meaningful reflections from the donors whose kindness sustains the initiative.
Led by Bala Reddy Indurti, President of Sankara Nethralaya USA, the gathering united a respected circle of changemakers and patrons. Their unwavering dedication to the mission was reflected in the presence of trustees, senior executives, and a wide array of Adopt-a-Village supporters whose efforts continue to bring clarity and hope to countless lives in rural India.
Sponsors recounted personal experiences from their visits to the eye camps, where they observed the precision of care, surgical mastery, and profound respect shown to every patient. Their reflections provided a rich reservoir of qualitative insight—reinforcing the institution’s steadfast commitment to excellence and its deeply ingrained spirit of service.
This shared dialogue highlighted the lasting impact of Sankara Nethralaya, which for more than 48 years has remained a guiding light, restored vision, and uplifted the lives of those most in need. The gathering reaffirmed the enduring strength of collaboration, generosity, and mission-driven leadership in promoting accessible eye care across generations.
The chief guest for this ‘Meet & Greet’ event with sponsors is Mr. Ganapathi Reddy Indurti, Managing Director of the Telangana Education Department and former Roads & Buildings Chief official, who has been a key enabler of MESU eye camps across the state. His influence has been instrumental in securing government approvals and streamlining logistics.
At the inception of the Hyderabad MESU unit, he facilitated year-long permissions and is now working to connect the current Health Minister with the Sankara Nethralaya India team to secure umbrella approval for statewide operations.
He has personally attended six Adopt-a-Village camps—including in his native Dindi Chintapalli and the Chief Minister’s village, Konda Reddy pally—overseeing arrangements and engaging directly with patients. He also hosted a vibrant cultural program during the installation of the Ghantasala statue, celebrating the Bharat Ratna honor, where Dr. Sarath Chandra captivated villagers with a six-hour performance.
Anumula Krishna Reddy, younger brother of Telangana Chief Minister Sri Revanth Reddy, shared highlights from the MESU camp in Konda Reddy pally —its 20th in a series of 26. The camp delivered screenings, surgeries, meals, and transport, reaching over 1,800 patients. One attendee shared, “We struggled with vision for 20–30 years, and this camp restored my sight.” Strong local support made the effort a success, prompting requests for similar camps in Kodangal.
Raghavendra Reddy Sunkireddy, a Houston-based realtor, has completed three MESU camps and is serving as COO of The Telangana Academy for Skill and Knowledge (TASK)- a cabinet-ranking position by the Chief Minister. Introduced to the initiative by the President Bala Reddy and Narayan Reddy Indurthi, he praised Sankara Nethralaya’s outreach and the emotional impact of mobile surgeries.
Camps in Veldanda and Amangal saw compassionate care from the team, including Raju Byrm and Dr. Alex. Marepalli Chandrasekhar Reddy of San Diego, California, supported the MESU camp in Kannekal, Nalgonda district, inspired by Bala Reddy’s leadership. He emphasized the importance of local support and suggested sponsorships when it's lacking, motivated by honoring ancestors or special occasions. The camp was a success, with help from his cousin, a medical doctor. Chandrasekhar Reddy is also related by marriage to Dr. Prem Reddy.
Jalandhar Reddy, a committed benefactor, has completed two MESU eye camps and is preparing for a third. His first camp served a remote tribal village in the Nallamala forest, screening over 1163 and completing 182 surgeries. The second, in Achampet, brought care to nearby villages with another 137 surgeries.
The upcoming camp in Lingala (Mahbubnagar) will again benefit tribal communities. He extends heartfelt thanks to Bala garu for this meaningful opportunity. Dr. Sarath Kamineni supported two MESU camps after being introduced by Mallik Banda. Though he missed the Vijayawada camp, he attended the Vadlamudi camp, where his brother led social media outreach. Grateful for the opportunity, he praised the local team’s care, SN USA’s follow-up, and the sponsors’ dedication—calling it a deeply satisfying first experience.
Srini Reddy Vangimalla of Atlanta has led three MESU camps over the years, each two years apart, overcoming initial resistance due to the village’s remoteness. These camps, vital for patients needing second-eye surgeries, address barriers like cost and lack of family support. With refined processes and 100% success, Srini credits strong local involvement. The third camp honored his late brother, who helped launch the first two. Despite ongoing permit and infrastructure challenges, the impact remains deeply rewarding.
Tirumala Reddy Kumbum of Pulivendula thanked NRU and Satyam for supporting the second MESU camp, which succeeded through strong family and team efforts. He highlighted the role of groups like Manavatha and shared two key suggestions: involve locals by saying “This is your camp,” and attend in person. Patient responses were deeply grateful, and Thirumal urged more organizations to help expand MESU’s reach.
Dr. Lakshman Rao Kalvakuntla of Houston TX joined the MESU camp after a friend’s recommendation and was deeply impressed by its execution, technology, and care. With support from local doctors, the Rotary Club, and media coverage, the camp made a strong impact. He suggested establishing a permanent base hospital in Hyderabad to sustain and expand this vital work.
Kiran Reddy Pasham sponsored an Adopt-a-Village MESU eye camp in Khudabakshpally (Nalgonda), completing 77 surgeries and referring 200 patients to the base hospital. Auto outreach drew neighboring villagers, though the Ganesh festival may have affected turnout. The medical care was outstanding, with strong support from MLA Rajagopal Reddy, local media, and community leaders. Held in memory of his father, Pasham Dharmareddy, the camp was a touching tribute—with a second one already in planning.
Srinivas Emani of Sangam Jagaralmudi village (Guntur District) sponsored an Adopt-a-Village MESU eye camp, where 533 individuals were screened, 86 surgeries performed, and 120 referred to the base hospital. Guided by his belief that “Service to humanity is service to God,” he meticulously planned the camp, promoted it with the help of childhood friends, and witnessed its success alongside his family. Local leaders played a key role in mobilizing support and ensuring smooth execution.
Jagadeesh Cheemarla and Hema of Telkapally thanked Bala Reddy for involving them in the MESU camp, calling it a blessing for underserved communities. Despite festival season and heavy rains, local support—especially from Red Cross Secretary Ramesh Reddy—ensured smooth operations. Moved by the impact, Jagadeesh hopes to host another camp soon.
Bhaskar Gangipamula sponsored an 11-day MESU eye camp in Bhimavaram village (West Godavari District) in loving memory of his father, who passed away during the pandemic. The camp screened 902 individuals and completed 83 surgeries. Bhaskar’s entire family actively participated in hosting the event, with outstanding support from local leaders and the Sankara Nethralaya team.
Meher and Vijaya Lanka joined the MESU camp in Korumilli, Vijaya’s native village, which she revisited after 40 years. With help from her maternal uncle and local volunteers, the camp ran smoothly, even using auto announcements for outreach. Though patients were initially anxious, they soon praised the Sankara Nethralaya team’s care. The camp restored vision and built lasting confidence, prompting interest in a second camp. As Meher noted, the local school has long hosted Christmas eye camps—reflecting the village’s deep commitment to vision care
Lokesh Krishnaswami supported the MESU camp in memory of his late mother, calling it a deeply fulfilling experience. With help from a childhood friend and the village welfare association, they organized the camp smoothly—“zero complaints,” he noted. After traveling over 200 km, Lokesh was moved by the impact on the community. A follow-up lens issue gave him another chance to help, deepening his commitment to the cause.
Vinod Parna, Board of Trustees member from Seattle, has played a pivotal role in promoting Sankara Nethralaya within Microsoft and inspiring sponsors such as Ram Kotti and Bhaskar Gangipomula to support Adopt-a-Village eye camps. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Bala Indurti for his unwavering support and the flawless execution of these impactful initiatives.
Surya Gangireddy of Los Angeles, representing RANA, hosted the first MESU camp by the Puttaparthi unit. Moved by Sankara Nethralaya’s mission, he was proud to support its outreach. Hearing patients say, “I can see better now” after surgery affirmed the life-changing impact of MESU’s mobile care.
Ram Kotti conducted an Adopt-a-Village MESU eye camp in Mangalagiri (Guntur District) in loving memory of his sister, Vasundhara, who passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic. The camp screened nearly 788 patients and completed 111 surgeries. Deeply impressed by the seamless execution of the SN USA team, Ram expressed his commitment to continue supporting such initiatives—and is already planning his second camp.
Sateesh Kumar hosted a MESU camp in Vinjamooru to honor his father, Segu Subbarao’s 75th birthday. Subbarao, a former Lions Club President, helped with hospitality. The camp screened 878 patients and performed 170 surgeries—celebrating legacy through impactful service.
Dr. Reddy Urimindi, Dallas-based Board of Trustees, hosted a successful event spotlighting Sankara Nethralaya’s ecosystem—team-building, sponsor engagement, and skill-sharing. His insights set the stage for launching the Youth Committee’s 12-month skill development program, which aims to empower future leaders.
Shyam Appali, EVP of Sankara Nethralaya USA, creates impactful video recaps that unite chapters and engage global supporters. Mallik Banda, a key leader in Los Angeles, has transformed outreach and donor engagement. “Through Sankara Nethralaya, I’ve found my life’s purpose,” he shared, praising MESU’s precision and the support behind the mission. A special note of gratitude to Ratnakumar Kavuturu of Singapore, whose dedication and outreach efforts have meaningfully expanded the visibility of Sankara Nethralaya’s mission.
President Bala Reddy Induri emphasized that the success of Adopt-a-Village MESU camps depends on strong coordination and dedicated stakeholders. He thanked MESU coordinators Raju Byrum, Ujwal Sinha, Kaushik, Ranjith Kumar, Bhanu Prakash Reddy, and Chennai staff Arul Kumar and Suresh Kumar, with special appreciation for Dr. Girish Rao and Dr. T Surendran. These collective efforts continue to restore sight and hope across rural India.
The Adopt-a-Village sponsors Meet ‘n Greet program video is available at the link ---> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NeJ0lhpNB7U&t=1700s
Answers to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Adopt-a-Village Program in multiple languages (English, Telugu, Tamil & Hindi) are available at the following link: --->
https://www.sankaranethralayausa.org/pdf/adopt-a-village-faq-flyer-07102025.pdf
For more information or to donate, please visit www.sankaranethralayausa.org or call toll-free at (855) 463-8472.
Tax-deductible donations can be mailed to:
Sankara Nethralaya USA, 7238 Muncaster Mill Rd, No. 522, Derwood, MD 20855
Content Produced by Indian Clicks, LLC
