Aravind places a strong emphasis on keeping its employees engaged not only in their routine tasks but also in activities that enhance their skills and knowledge. By fostering teamwork and professional growth, the institution empowers its employees to generate fresh ideas that contribute to the on-going development of the organisation. A prime example of this is Arangam, Aravind’s annual intramural conference held recently at Aravind-Madurai. This three-day event brought together employees from across all Aravind centres, providing a platform to share best practices in their work through posters and papers. Such initiatives inspire others to impart greater efficiency in their work and encourage a spirit of innovation, further driving the institution’s progress.

Similarly, a workshop organised by the Aravind Medical Research Foundation (AMRF) on “Extracellular Vesicles: Isolation, Characterisation, and Applications” attracted faculty and research scholars from various institutions.

Members of Aravind, including doctors and governing members participated in the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) conference held in Chicago. This engagement not only highlighted Aravind’s pivotal role in eye care but also provided an opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in the field, which will be implemented in Aravind’s practices.

This edition features these highlights and much more from 15^th October 2024 to 15^th November 2024.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 14^th November 2024

Aravind-Tirunelveli was recognised with the Pasumai Valaham certificate by the Tirunelveli Corporation, appreciating its efforts in preventing river pollution and conserving the environment. The certificate highlights the institution’s role as a model for sustainable environmental practices.

Chicago, 18-21 October 2024

Jaipur, 27-29 September

Dr. Preeti Mohanty, Chief, IOL & Cataract Service, & Medical Consultant, Neuro-Ophthalmology, Aravind-Tirupati
Title: Canalicular lesions in Pemphigus Vulgaris

Aravind-Tirunelveli

A. Hemachandran, Camp Organiser, Aravind-Tirunelveli, was awarded with the Best Coordinator Award by the Manambur Lions Club.

Dehradun, 25-27 October 2024

Best Physical Poster Award in Cornea + External Eye & Ocular Surface Disease session

Dr. Mevis Phonglo, Cornea Fellow, Aravind-Pondicherry
Title: Trend of Keratoconus Pre & Post COVID-19 in students in a tertiary eye care centre in South India (FP123)
Co-authors: Dr. Prashansa Yadav, Cornea Fellow, and Dr. Josephine Christy S, Chief, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Services, Aravind-Pondicherry

Best Paper Award at the Cornea-II session

Dr. Garima Rath, Cornea Fellow, Aravind-Pondicherry
Title: Factors influencing corneal haze post corneal collagen cross-linking in Keratoconus treatment (Free Paper)
Co-authors: Dr. Josephine Christy S, and Dr. Malathy M, PG Resident

Best paper of Session at the Glaucoma III Finals session

Dr. Shivam Gupta, Medical Consultant, Glaucoma Services, Aravind-Tirunelveli
Title: Outcomes of Gonoiscopy assisted transluminal trabeculotomy in juvenile open angle glaucoma patients (Free Paper)
Co-authors: Dr. Devendra Maheshwari, Dr. Madhavi Ramanatha Pillai, and Prof. Dr. Rama Krishnan R.

Best Subject Paper Award at the Glaucoma Session

Dr. Nimrita Gyanchand Nagdev, Medical Consultant, Glaucoma Services, Aravind-Tirunelveli
Title: Outcomes of gonioscoy assisted transluminal trabeculotomy in primary angle closure glaucoma (PAGG) (Free Paper)
Co-authors: Dr. Devendra Maheshwari, Dr. Madhavi Ramanatha Pillai, and Prof. Dr. Rama Krishnan R.

Aravind-Madurai, Chennai, 14^th November 2024 

Aravind observed World Diabetes Day by organising a series of events with the aim of improving awareness among patients, and the public about diabetes-related eye complications. Further, the importance of controlling diabetes and undergoing regular eye examinations to prevent blindness due to diabetic retinopathy, were stressed.

Aravind-Madurai

In the series of events held at Aravind-Madurai, organised a range of educational and awareness activities for MLOPs, counsellors, patients, and the public. The events featured a food pyramid, models preparation, quiz competitions for MLOPs and patients, an awareness CME, a speech competition, an awareness exhibition, pamphlet distribution, an awareness talk in TV, teleconsultation, and a mega screening camp. Furthermore, blood tests were provided for patients at a subsidised rate as part of the event.

Aravind-Chennai

In view of World Diabetes Day, Aravind-Chennai featured a food pyramid display to educate participants about healthy eating choices, and awareness posters, focusing on the signs, symptoms, and prevention of diabetic retinopathy. Furthermore, free Random Blood Sugar (RBS) tests were provided as part of the event for patients, raising awareness about the importance of regular blood sugar monitoring.

Aravind-Tirunelveli

Aravind-Tirunelveli observed World Diabetes Day by organising an awareness exhibition to educate the public and attendees about preventive measures to protect themselves from diabetes-related eye issues.

Aravind-Salem, Madurai & Pondicherry, 6-17 November 2024

The first year MLOPs at Aravind-Salem, Madurai, and Pondicherry celebrated their Graduation Day on 6^th, 13^th, and 17^th  November 2024 respectively, with their parents. The programmes featured cultural events and heartfelt reflections on their journeys and achievements. Parents expressed pride in their daughters’ accomplishments and the positive impact of their new roles as employees.

At Aravind-Madurai, considering the graduates’ parents who were unable to attend their daughters’ graduation in person, because of work or travel challenges, also to ensure they witness the celebration, a YouTube link was provided. This marked the first time an MLOP graduation event at Aravind was live streamed, and it was highly successful, with a total of 597 viewers watching the programme online.

Aravind-Madurai, 7-9 November 2024

The emergency resuscitation room exhibition at Aravind-Madurai was inaugurated by Dr. S.R. Rathinam, Chief, Uvea Services, Aravind-Madurai, Dr. R. Banushree, Physician, Aravind-Chennai and Kannamma Ravindran, HOD, Lakshmi Eye Care Support Services. The exhibition served as an eye-opener for staff, enhancing their knowledge of basic life support systems, emergency situation handling, and understanding of normal and diseased body functions. MLOPs from the Ward department created the innovative exhibits that engaged all visitors.

Aravind-Madurai, 8-10 November 2024

The Arangam – Aravind Intramural Conference, held as part of October Summit, was conducted to encourage learning, continuous improvement, and innovation among all staff members of Aravind Eye Hospitals. A total of 320 participants from all departments of Aravind centres participated in four parallel tracks: Care, Focus, Heal, and Train. This year, two new competitions were introduced under Train tract, namely Art in Ophthalmology, and Teaching in 2 Minutes. Each track featured instructional courses, oral presentation, poster presentation, video presentation, and quiz competitions. In total, there were 290 innovative presentations, and 54 participants won prizes. Additionally, several common events such as instructional courses, learning stalls,  informative posters and innovations, cultural events, and fun games, were held for all participants. The participants were also taken to Keeladi Museum.

Aravind-Coimbatore, 23-26 October 2024

Aravind-Coimbatore organised a four day orientation programme for the newly recruited supervisors and tutors, aiming to effectively integrating them into their new roles. The internal faculty team including, Dr. Sasikala, Medical Consultant, Paediatric Services, Aravind-Coimbatore, Sr. Sulochana, Sr. Radhika, Sr. Shanmugalakshmi, Dr. Deepa T.N., MLOP Incharge Doctor, R. Krishnakumar, Manager-Regulatory Affairs, AuroLab, Syed Ali, Senior Faculty, LAICO, and other senior MLOP team members shared their insights on various topics. The multiple sessions oriented the participants on the welfare programmes, importance of retention, their roles in implementing MLOP policies, the challenges faced in supervisory roles, the role of a tutor in implementing academic activities, their responsibilities in implementing NABH activities, the supervisors’ role as leaders within the organisation, the activities and contributions of LAICO and Aurolab, and the importance of imparting Aravind culture and values as mentors.

Aravind-Madurai, 25^th October 2024

The workshop organised by Aravind-Madurai in collaboration with National Health Mission Tamil Nadu, aimed to enhance the participants’ skills and knowledge in critical areas of ophthalmology, including injection techniques, protocols, and comprehensive postoperative endophthalmitis management.

Dr. R. Kim, Chief Medical Officer, Aravind-Madurai, welcomed the attendees, and Dr. Naresh Babu, Chief, Retina Vitreous Services, delivered an introductory address. Sessions were led by Dr. Prithviraj and Dr. Muthukrishnan, Medical Consultants, Retina and Vitreous Services, along with other internal experts. The event further featured panel discussions, and hands-on training in wet lab. Dr. Naresh Babu gave a vote of thanks. The workshop successfully attracted around 140 doctors from across Tamil Nadu.

Aravind-Chennai, 25^th October 2024

Held at the ARCORE Training Centre, the programme aimed to structure the curriculum for the Postgraduate Training Programme. Heads of the departments and postgraduate coordinators from over 20 colleges across Chennai participated. The programme received positive feedback, with participants sharing valuable insights and suggestions to develop a structured course to enhance postgraduate students’ knowledge and skills in ophthalmology.

Aravind-Madurai, 20^th October 2024

The CME held at Aravind-Madurai featured various sessions to share expert knowledge and best practices with the MLOPs from 39 vision centres, under Madurai. Arumugaselvi, IOL Clinical Manager, Jeyakohila, Nursing Superintendent, Aravind-Madurai, and Syed Ali, led the sessions, while Dr. Kowsalya, Medical Consultant, Aravind-Madurai, facilitated them. Pitchaimeena, VC MLOP Manager, and Jhansi Sunitha, VC Manager, handled the event arrangements. Mohammed Gowth, Senior Faculty Incharge of vision Centres, summarised the take home messages from the sessions and insisting upon adherence to protocols, frugal, and integrity – the core values of Aravind. Dr. Usha Kim, Regional HR Director, extended her guidance and support. Additionally, the Aurowel check-ups was conducted by the lab team and medical officers.

Aravind-Chennai, 19^th October 2024

Aravind-Chennai celebrated its 7^th Hospital Day with great enthusiasm, attended by all staff members. The chief guest, Dr. Saveetha Rajesh, Chairman, The Pupil, Saveetha Eco School, & Professor of Radiology, Saveetha Medical College, graced the event. Dr. Aravind, Chief Medical Officer, Aravind-Chennai, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the hospital’s achievements and announcing future expansion plans for both the free hospital and specialty services, as well as new benchmarks in patient care.

The event honoured the dedication of staff members, with service awards presented to those completing 5, 10, 20, and 25 years of service. Additionally, the Auroutsav winners’ trophy was awarded to the blue team, celebrating their achievements and teamwork. The highlight of the event was the cultural performances, which creatively depicted each of the seven pillars of the Aravind Eye Care System onstage.

AMRF, 24-25 October 2024

Organised by Aravind Medical Research Foundation (AMRF) as part of the October Summit and the Scientific Social Responsibilities (SSR) initiative of the on-going SERB-SRG project, this two-day hands-on workshop featured lectures by Dr. Arup Banerjee, Professor, Regional Centre of Biotechnology, Faridabad, Dr. S.M. Salahudeen, Director, Tricell Biologics, Chennai, Dr. Gowri Priya, Senior Scientist, AMRF, and Prof. K. Dharmalingam, Director, AMRF. Participants performed hands-on experiments to isolate extracellular vesicles (EVs) from plasma using two distinct techniques and observed a demonstration of EV isolation from Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). They also performed EV characterisation using Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA), protein isolation, Western blot, and proteome analysis.

During the event, Dr. Daipayan Banerjee, the Principal Investigator and Convenor, emphasised the growing significance of EV research in diagnostic and therapeutic applications and conducted practical’s with student resource persons. Researchers from AMRF, including Hariharan Gnanam, Kanmani, Aruna Devi, Karthik, Mathan, Dr. Viswanathan, Aadhithiya, and Iswarya, served as resource persons. A total of 17 participants, including faculty members, Ph.D. research scholars, and M.Sc. students from 11 institutions across Tamil Nadu, attended the workshop.

LAICO, 4-6 November 2024

As part of the October Summit programme, LAICO conducted the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) programme for the alumni of the Hospital Administrators’ Course. The programme aimed to provide a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, enabling participants to explore innovative approaches and best practices in hospital administration. The three-day event began with inaugural session, Dhivya Ramasamy, Executive Director, LAICO, delivering a formal welcome address, followed by Ganesh Babu, Senior Manager, Central Operations, AECS, delivering a keynote address. The programme concluded on the third day of the event, with a valedictory address by Thulsiraj Ravilla, Director Emeritus, LAICO & Director of Operations, AECS. The event brought together 27 participants from external hospitals and 14 from Aravind Eye hospitals, with attendees from Nepal and various regions from across India.

LAICO, 15-26 October 2024

As part of capacity building initiatives, Dr. Ashok Vardhan, Chief Medical Officer, Aravind-Tirupati and D. Yesunesan, Senior Faculty, LAICO, made a Needs Assessment visit to Kabgayi Eye Unit, Rwanda, on 15-17 October 2024. Similarly, Dr. Siva Kumar, Medical Consultant, Aravind-Tirunelveli and D. Yesunesan, Senior Faculty, LAICO, visited Jeevan Jyoti Eye Hospital, Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh, on 22-26 October 2024. Dr. Rekha, Medical Consultant, Aravind-Madurai, and B. Ganesh Babu, Senior Faculty, LAICO, visited Nirala Hospital, Gumla, Jharkhand from 22-25 October 2024. In addition, Dr. Narayan, Aravind-Coimbatore, B. Suresh Kumar, Senior Faculty, and Suganya, Monitoring Executive, LAICO, visited Katihar Lions Eye Hospital, Katihar, Bihar from 21-25 October 2024. The main objective of these visits was to gain an understanding of the hospitals and identify potential focus areas for improvement.

Dehradun, 25-27 October 2024

Aravind doctors presented papers and posters at the 3rd Mid-Term Conference of the All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOC), held at Hyatt Regency, Dehradun.

Dr. Kumar Siddharth, Fellow, Glaucoma Clinic

• Title: Metamorphopsia and Detached Schwalbe’s ring: A rare case of Axenfeld – Rieger (Free Paper)
• Title: Anomaly with Dome – Shaped Maculopathy

Dr. Indira Durai, Medical Consultant, Glaucoma clinic

• Title: Iridochisis and Glaucoma: The Pivotal role of Anterior segment OCT
• Title: Enigma of the Mysterious triangle unique case of unilateral absorption of crystalline lens

Dr. Vijayalakshmi, Medical Consultant, Glaucoma clinic

• Title: Outcomes of KDB Goniotomy versus NPDS PHACO in advanced Glaucoma (Free Paper)
• Title: Visual and surgical outcomes of MMC, augmented NPDS+ PHACO in advanced Glaucoma (Paper)

Chicago, 18-21 October 2024

Members from Aravind participated as speakers and presenters at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) Annual Meeting 2024, a hybrid event held at McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois, United states of America.

Thulasiraj Ravilla

• Session: Sustainability in Ophthalmology: How to achieve a triple win for your practice, patients and planet
  Title: Aravind achievements in carbon reduction (Talk)
• Session: Eye Health as a “Best Buy” in International Development: How Economics and Business Models Affect Global Ophthalmology
  Title: The Vital Economic Impact of Vision as a “Best Buy” in Global Development Efforts (Talk)

Dr. R. Meenakshi, Chief Medical Officer, Aravind-Tirunelveli

• Title: Unique considerations in paediatric keratoconus (Instruction Course – Talk)
• Title: Non-surgical visual rehabilitation in paediatric keratoconus (Talk)

Dr. Revathy, Chief, Corneal Services, Aravind-Coimbatore,

• Instruction Course – Unique Considerations in Pediatric Keratoconus (Co-instructor)
  Title: CXL in Pediatric KCN
• IC – Management Algorithm for Recalcitrant Microbial Keratitis (Co-instructor)
  Title: Therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty
• Grand Rounds with Infectious Keratitis Experts: What You Should Know (Co-instructor and Panel)
  Title: A comparative study of Long-term Efficacy and Safety of Collagen Cross Linking (CXL) in paediatric keratoconus Vs adults (Scientific Poster)

Dr. Sharmila, Medical Consultant, Glaucoma Service, Aravind – Madurai

• Advanced MSICS Instruction course
  Title: Combined Trab with SICS and lens induced Glaucoma (Paper)
• Cataract Surgery in short eye Instruction course.
  Title: Surgical management: Tips and tricks in Nanophthalmos

Dr. V. Anitha, Chief, Cornea, Aravind-Tirunelveli

• Session: Instruction Course on Unique Consideration
  in Paediatric Keratoconus
  Title: Role of PKP in Paediatric keratoconus
• Instruction Course on Infectious Keratitis
  Grand Rounds (Panel)
• MICS Instructor
• Skill Transfer course on “Corneal Neurotization” (Participant)

Dr. Seema Prabhu, Medical Sonsultant, Cornea Services, Aravind-Chennai

• Instruction course: Intro to MSICS
  Title: Capsulotomy/Prolapse/Delivery (Talk)
• Title: Filling the refractive gap in Endothelial Keratoplasty: The Piggyback Way (Video Presentation)

Dr. Lokeshwari, Medical Consultant, Cornea Services, Aravind-Salem

• Served as a Microsurgery Instructor at the MSICS Wetlab.

Dhivya Ramasamy, Executive Director, LAICO

• Taking care of our Future – for Young Ophthalmologists Session
  Title: Environmental Sustainability in Eye Care (Talk)
• Eye Health Best Buy – Global Ophthalmology Session
  Title: Large volume, high quality, affordable and sustainable eye care delivery for all (Talk)

Netherlands, 14-18 October 2024

Dr. Sharmila visited Maastricht University, Netherlands to discuss her thesis with her Ph.D. guides Dr. Tos, and Dr. Webers.