Aravind-Pondicherry, 20-21 June 2026

Organised by Aravind-Pondicherry, the symposium held in memory of Mike Myers celebrated his invaluable contributions to the field of ophthalmic photography. The event marked Aravind’s first-of-its-kind symposium, bringing together ophthalmologists, photographers, videographers, and ophthalmic technicians on a common platform to learn, collaborate, and advance the field of ophthalmic imaging.

Tim Costello, an award-winning ophthalmic imaging specialist from the W.K. Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, United States of America, delivered sessions on a wide range of topics, including anterior segment photography, editing and post-processing, among others. Dr. Prasanna V. Ramesh, glaucoma surgeon, DNB coordinator, and researcher at Mahathma Eye Hospital Private Limited, Trichy, presented a session on AI in ophthalmic imaging – present and future. Bagmisikha Puhan, Managing Partner, Puhan and Puhan LLP, Delhi, spoke on copyright, consent, and ethical dimensions in clinical photography, followed by an interactive Q&A session. Dr. Deepak Megur of Megur Eye Care Centre, Bidar, Karnataka, delivered a guest lecture.

In addition, several internal faculty members shared their expertise. Two workshops were also conducted. The first, led by Dr. T.P. Vignesh, Medical Consultant, Retina-Vitreous Services, Aravind-Madurai, and Dr. R. Ram Sudharshan, Medical Consultant, Retina-Vitreous Services, Aravind-Tirunelveli, focused on publishing clinical images, while the second, conducted by Tim Costello, covered anterior segment imaging.

A major highlight of the symposium was the Mike Myers Award – Imaging Competition, held in two categories: anterior segment photography, where S.R. Sumithra, Supervisor, Cornea Department, Aravind-Madurai, won the first prize; and posterior segment photography, where S. Bharathi, FFA Technician, Aravind-Madurai, won the first prize.

Aravind-Salem, 21^st June 2023

Organised by Aravind-Salem, the programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. B. Manohar Babu, CMO, Aravind-Salem. The scientific sessions featured distinguished faculty members sharing their knowledge on various aspects of glaucoma diagnosis, management, and surgical techniques. The morning session was dedicated to CME lectures, while the afternoon featured an interactive dry lab on glaucoma procedures. The CME was attended by 75 delegates and 15 faculty members, while the dry lab had 20 participants guided by 4 faculty members.

Aravind-Chengalpattu, 20^th June 2026

Organised by Aravind-Chengalpattu, the CME programme for eye care professionals, reaffirmed the hosptial’s commitment to advancing ophthalmic education and enhancing patient care.

The programme focused on the early detection, accurate diagnosis, and latest management strategies for keratoconus. Experts emphasised the importance of timely intervention, advanced corneal imaging techniques, and contemporary treatment options, including corneal collagen cross-linking and specialty contact lenses. The sessions provided participants with valuable clinical insights to improve the diagnosis and management of keratoconus in practice. The programme was accredited with TNMC credit points and was attended by a total of 51 participants.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 19^th June 2026

As part of the hospital’s staff wellness initiative, an online yoga session was conducted for Vision Centre staff through teleconference. The session focused on simple yoga postures, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques that can be incorporated into daily routines to enhance physical fitness, mental well-being, and stress management. The programme was facilitated by Gomathi and Deepa, and witnessed enthusiastic participation from Vision Centre staff across multiple locations.

Aravind-Chennai, 16-20 June 2026

The 7th Batch of Īkshana – Comprehensive Capsule for Postgraduates (Phase II) was conducted at the ARCORE Training Centre, Aravind-Chennai. The programme was designed to strengthen postgraduate ophthalmology training by providing a comprehensive foundation in theoretical knowledge and practical surgical skills through interactive lectures, hands-on sessions, and expert-led discussions. The programme was attended by 37 postgraduate students representing government medical colleges, regional institutes of ophthalmology, tertiary care teaching hospitals, and various Aravind centres across India.

Dr. D. Balasaraswathy, Medical Consultant, General Ophthalmology, Aravind-Coimbatore, delivered lectures on phacoemulsification complications and the principles of anterior vitrectomy, followed by a wet lab demonstration. Dr. R. Shanthi, Head, Ocular Pathology, Aravind-Madurai, conducted a lecture on ocular pathology.

Aravind-Thanjavur, 17^th June 2026

A certification training programme on Basic Life Support (BLS) was conducted at Aravind-Thanjavur. The programme was led by Dr. Deepak Narayanan, Deputy Medical Superintendent, Kamatchi Medical Centre, Thanjavur, along with his team.

All staff members of Aravind-Thanjavur actively participated in the training, gaining valuable knowledge and practical skills in managing cardiac emergencies. The programme included both theoretical sessions and hands-on training in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), providing essential life-saving skills for staff involved in direct patient care.

Aravind-Madurai, 14^th June 2026

Organised by Aravind-Madurai, the CME programme for practising ophthalmologists and consultants aimed to enhance clinical expertise and improve decision-making in challenging cataract surgery scenarios.

The comprehensive curriculum covered critical topics such as managing small pupils, handling subluxated cataracts, performing anterior vitrectomy, biometry in difficult situations, and selecting suitable patients for premium intraocular lenses (IOLs).

The programme featured deferred live surgeries that demonstrated the management of complex cases. In addition, the CME included hands-on wet lab training, providing valuable practical experience.

The event brought together 97 ophthalmologists and expert consultants. All attendees were awarded two Tamil Nadu Medical Council (TNMC) credit hours.

Aravind-Madurai, 11^th June 2026

The Singappen Special Task Force conducted a session for AOP 1st and 2nd year trainees to introduce the Singappen Special Force, a dedicated all-women police unit launched by the Government of Tamil Nadu to protect women and children across the state. The session created awareness about issues affecting women and ways to safeguard themselves.

Nithya, Sub-Inspector and Incharge of the Madurai Singappen Force, delivered a talk emphasising women’s safety and also shared the relevant helpline number. More than 100 AOP trainees participated in the event.

Aravind-Chennai, 6-7 June 2026

The two-day CME programme brought together leading glaucoma specialists from across the country, along with Aravind faculty from various centres, to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and discuss the latest advances in glaucoma care.

The first day, attended by 30 delegates, featured a hands-on Wet Lab and scientific sessions on procedures such as AADI implantation, Ahmed Glaucoma Valve (AGV) implantation, Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) using the Kahook Dual Blade (KDB), and Tanito surgery. The second day attracted 160 delegates and included engaging sessions such as Battle of Perspectives: Glaucoma Champions Speak, challenging case discussions with expert panellists, Glaucoma Surgeries – Reality Check, and spotlight lectures on emerging concepts in glaucoma management.

An interactive Glaucoma Quiz generated enthusiastic participation, with winners receiving prizes. The Case Presentation Competition showcased exceptional clinical acumen and innovative problem-solving. Dr. Flonny C. Sunny won the First Prize in the Interesting Case Discussion category for her presentation titled Rear Door Phaco: Cataract Surgery Through the Pars Plana Route in ICE Syndrome.

Aravind-Madurai, 6^th June 2026

In collaboration with the College of Nursing, Madurai Medical College, Madurai, Aravind-Madurai conducted a three-hour training programme on Eye Banking for ten M.Sc. Nursing students from the first and second years of the Surgical Nursing Department. The programme was organised in response to a request from the Principal of the College of Nursing, Madurai Medical College.

The training programme aimed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of eye banking and corneal donation services. D. Saravanan, Manager, Eye Bank, Aravind-Madurai, delivered an introductory session on Eye Banking and Eye Donation. He also handled sessions on the Hospital Cornea Retrieval Programme (HCRP), Community Cornea Retrieval, and Grief Counselling. While, K. Anusuya conducted sessions on retrieval techniques, contraindications for corneal donation, quality assurance in eye banking, and infection control practices.

Aravind-Salem, 5^th June 2026

In observance of World Environment Day, the doctors and AOP Sisters at Aravind-Salem, came together for a tree-plantation drive within the hospital campus. The initiative aimed to promote environmental sustainability, enhance the green cover of the campus, and create awareness about the importance of protecting and preserving the environment.

Aravind-Chennai, 4-5 June 2026

The 7th batch of AKSHIVIKAS – Aravind Advanced Cataract Course (Phase II) was conducted at the ARCORE Training Centre, Aravind-Chennai. The programme was designed to strengthen participants’ knowledge and surgical skills in advanced cataract management through a comprehensive mix of academic sessions, practical demonstrations, case-based discussions, and interactive faculty engagement.

The course featured expert-led sessions covering key aspects of cataract surgery and its management. Participants benefited from insightful lectures, practical tips, and focused discussions aimed at improving surgical outcomes and effectively handling challenging cases. The programme provided participants with opportunities to share experiences and learn directly from experienced faculty members.

A total of 36 participants attended the course, representing institutions and medical councils across India, including Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Haryana, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Karnataka.

Aravind-Coimbatore, 4^th June 2026

Furthering its commitment to accessible rural eye care, AECS inaugurated its latest Vision Centre in Nambiyur. The facility was formally opened by Shri Narayanaswamy, Vice President, Armstrong Spinning Mills, in the presence of Dr. Rodney J. Morris, Medical Consultant, Retina-Vitreous Services, Aravind-Coimbatore, along with members of the Aravind-Coimbatore team. Located on Gobi Main Road, the Vision Centre aims to bridge geographical and economic barriers to quality eye care by offering comprehensive eye examinations, refraction services for prescription glasses, and early screening for eye conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma. The centre is expected to significantly enhance access to essential eye care services for the residents of Nambiyur and the surrounding rural communities.

Aravind-Coimbatore, 31^st May 2026

In observance of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day, the Neuro-Ophthalmology Department at Aravind-Coimbatore conducted a radio talk based on the 2026 global theme of overcoming diagnostic barriers and reshaping public perception. The session aimed to raise public awareness, dispel fears and misconceptions surrounding the disease, and educate listeners about its early symptoms, available treatment options, and the importance of timely diagnosis.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) requires greater awareness in India, as it is not merely a disease of the Western world. MS is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves, disrupting communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

With advances in medical treatment, early diagnosis and appropriate care can significantly improve quality of life and reduce disability. Increasing public awareness and ensuring timely referral remain crucial for achieving better outcomes for patients living with multiple sclerosis.

Aravind-Madurai, 13 & 28 May 2026

The Department of Vitreo-Retina, Aravind-Madurai, conducted the Exit Examination for nine outgoing fellows from various centres: five from Aravind-Madurai, two from Aravind-Tirunelveli, and two from Aravind-Tirupati. The examination was conducted in two phases: The Theory Examination on 13^th May 2026 and the Clinical Viva Voce on 28^th May 2026.

Dr. V. Jaya Prakash, Senior Consultant & Professor, Department of Vitreo-Retina, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai (External Examiner), Dr. T.P. Vignesh, Medical Consultant, Retina-Vitreous Services, Aravind-Madurai, and Dr. Muthu Krishnan V., Medical Consultant, Retina-Vitreous Services, Aravind-Madurai, served as examiners for the Clinical Examination. The clinical examination assessed the candidates’ attitude, practical skills, and clinical problem-solving abilities. The active participation of both internal and external examiners ensured a fair, thorough, and comprehensive evaluation process.

Aravind-Madurai, 27^th May 2026

Aravind-Madurai, hosted this academic gathering, bringing together the Heads of Cornea from across the Aravind network, along with distinguished delegates from the Proctor Foundation, USA. The meeting was presided over by Dr. N. Venkatesh Prajna, Chief, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Services, Aravind-Madurai.

The event featured senior faculty members and experts from the Proctor Foundation, who engaged in in-depth discussions on advancing research methodologies in infectious keratitis. A novel approach to conducting clinical research through platform trials was introduced by Dr. Gerami Seitzman and Dr. Thomas Lietman, highlighting the advantages of efficiency, adaptability, and continuous learning across multiple trial arms.

The meeting also generated a series of innovative, collaboratively developed research questions that will serve as the foundation for future studies. Senior faculty members reaffirmed the long-standing partnership between Aravind and the Proctor Foundation in infectious keratitis research and emphasised the importance of cross-border collaboration in addressing this vision-threatening condition. The discussions laid the groundwork for future collaborative research initiatives and innovative multicentre studies aimed at accelerating progress in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of infectious keratitis.

During the occasion, the Proctor Foundation also honoured S.R. Sumithra, Supervisor, Cornea Department, Aravind-Madurai, and M. Lakshmi, Nursing Superintendent, Aravind-Madurai, with commemorative awards in recognition of their outstanding contributions to 20 years of excellence in coordinating research on corneal infections.