India, Dec. 5 -- Presbyopia, the gradual loss of near vision starting around age 40, affects about 800 million people worldwide, with India accounting for a staggering 300 million of those affected. This condition makes it challenging to see close up, significantly impacting daily activities and livelihoods, particularly for individuals in labour-intensive sectors like farming and weaving, where clear near vision is essential. The lack of affordable reading glasses can push many into deeper financial distress. Globally, uncorrected presbyopia leads to $25 billion in annual productivity losses, with India contributing $14 billion-a compelling reminder of the need for accessible vision solutions.

Providing reading glasses can yield substan...