**Question:** About National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB), all are true except

A. The programme focuses on prevention, control, and management of major causes of blindness.
B. The programme aims to provide eye care services to all citizens, irrespective of their socio-economic status.
C. The primary objective is to eliminate blindness due to cataract, trachoma, and leprosy.
D. The programme is solely focused on research and development in the field of ophthalmology.

**Correct Answer:** D. The National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) is primarily focused on prevention, control, and management of major causes of blindness. While research and development play a crucial role in ophthalmology, the primary objective of NPCB is not solely on research. Instead, it addresses the major causes of blindness, including cataract, trachoma, and leprosy. Options A and B highlight the core aspects of NPCB, while option C focuses on specific diseases that the programme aims to control.

**Explanation:**

1. Core Concept: National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB)
2. Why the Correct Answer is Right: NPCB was established with the aim of preventing, controlling, and managing the major causes of blindness in India. These causes include cataract, trachoma, and leprosy, which are major contributors to visual impairment and blindness in the country.

3. Why Other Options are Incorrect:

A. Prevention, control, and management of major causes of blindness: This statement is completely true and aligns with the main objective of NPCB.

B. Eye care services for all citizens irrespective of their socio-economic status: Although NPCB aims to ensure equitable access to eye care services, the primary focus is on controlling the major causes of blindness rather than socio-economic status.

C. Elimination of blindness due to cataract, trachoma, and leprosy: This statement is also true as NPCB focuses on controlling the prevalence of these diseases.

D. Research and development: While research plays an essential role in improving ophthalmic care, the primary objective of NPCB is not solely to promote research, but to address preventable causes of blindness.

Clinical Pearls:

The National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) is a significant initiative in India, aimed at preventing and controlling major causes of blindness. These causes include cataract, trachoma, and leprosy. Despite the importance of research and development in ophthalmology, the primary objective of NPCB is to reduce the prevalence of these preventable causes of blindness rather than solely focusing on research.