Which program was launched in 1976–

Correct option is C

Sol. The National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) was launched in 1976 by the Government of India with the objective of reducing the prevalence of avoidable blindness. It focused on cataract surgery, corneal transplantation, school eye screening, and distribution of free spectacles. Initially assisted by WHO and UNICEF, the program later evolved to include comprehensive eye care. The target was to reduce blindness prevalence from 1.4% to 0.3% by 2020.
Explanation of each option:
· (a) National Tuberculosis Control Program – Incorrect. It began in 1962 and was revamped in 1997 as RNTCP. It focuses on case detection and DOTS therapy for TB control. It is not the program launched in 1976.
· (b) National Malaria Control Program – Incorrect. This program was launched much earlier in 1953 as India’s first major disease control initiative. It targeted vector control, surveillance, and treatment.
· (c) National Program for control of Blindness – Correct. This program was officially launched in 1976 with specific goals of preventing and curing treatable blindness in India. It is now known as NPCB & VI.
· (d) None of these – Incorrect. Since option (c) is factually correct, this option is not applicable.