Mr RN Mohanty has spent more than three decades in the social sector with assignments involving programmes, finance, and enabling fundraising for various social and economic causes. He is currently CEO, Sightsavers India and is responsible for overseeing all facets of development work within the organisation. He joined Sightsavers in March 2013. Sightsavers under the leadership of RN, is a transformed organisation with strong governance, sturdy partnerships with the state government(s), robust fundraising growth and a visible brand identity. He was instrumental in on-boarding internationally acclaimed actor Sri Kabir Bedi as Sightsavers honorary brand ambassador. RN Mohanty was conferred with PNV Foundations 4th Showcase Odisha Award for his illustrious service in the development sector in 2019. A Master’s degree holder in Economics, he has done his Post Graduation in Human Resource Management. Regarded as a visionary for tomorrow, RN during his higher studies days was inspired to join the international development field after looking at the impact of poverty on people.

He answered the following questions during the interview:

1. What are some of the key programs undertaken by Sightsavers?
2. Why are eye care initiatives important in the CSR Space? How has COVID19 impacted the need for such initiatives?
3. What are the major socio-economic implications of eye care problems for the marginalised communities? Is there any link between visual impairment and the poverty cycle?
4. How can the CSR Fraternity bring in the element of sustainability in their eye care initiatives?
5. Do you think there is any alignment between SDGs and the eye care initiatives undertaken? If yes, which SDGs are related to eye care initiatives and how do these initiatives impact the SDGs?
6. Would you like to share a message for the youth of the country who are constantly glued to their screens?