10-16 March

Aravind-Tirunelveli

In observance of World Glaucoma Week at Aravind-Tirunelveli, a series of activities were conducted to raise glaucoma awareness.
A human chain programme was held in front of the hospital, graced by the presence of Venkatesh, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Tirunelveli, and Dr. N. Subramanian, President, the Indian Medical Association, Tirunelveli Branch.
A glaucoma awareness exhibition for the public was inaugurated by Thiru. Venkatesh and Dr. N. Subramanian. The exhibition featured informative posters detailing various types of glaucoma, its causes, symptoms, and hereditary factors. Furthermore, a press conference was organised, and informational pamphlets and notices were distributed among the public.
Moreover, Dr. R. Ramakrishnan, Advisor, Aravind-Tirunelveli, and Dr. Mohideen Abdul Kadar, Chief, Retina Vitreous, Aravind-Tirunelveli, delivered talks on glaucoma awareness via All India Radio, broadcasted throughout the week.
In addition, a mega glaucoma camp was held at Aravind-Kovilpatti on 6th March. During the camp, 452 patients underwent screenings, resulting in the identification of 38 new cases of glaucoma, while 78 individuals were recommended for cataract surgery.

Aravind-Tirupati

As part of World Glaucoma Week, an exhibition was organised at Aravind-Tirupati, aimed at raising awareness about preventable vision conditions. Queries were addressed by MLOPs, emphasising the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. The exhibition facilitated understanding of glaucoma’s early symptoms, the tubular vision and its occurrence, encouraging attendees to undergo eye check-ups. Additionally, the District Medical & Health Officer visited the hospital, and delivered an awareness speech on glaucoma diagnosis and treatment to patients. Family screenings for glaucoma were conducted, and a screening camp was held at Zoopark, Tirupati.

8^th March

Across all Aravind centres, the Women’s day was celebrated with enthusiasm, featuring a range of events such as special talks, physical fitness activities, Kolam competitions, and various fun games. The festivities made the day a memorable occasion, honouring and empowering women in the workplace.

Aravind-Madurai

Several Women’s Day activities were organised at Aravind-Madurai, including a special talk by Bathmavathi, Sub-Inspector of Police, Madurai, and Selvi Rani, Brahma Kumari. Additionally, various physical fitness activities were arranged for all female employees at LAICO.

Aravind-Tirunelveli

In commemoration of International Women’s Day, Aravind-Tirunelveli organised talks on the theme “Inspire Inclusion,” featuring three guests: Benazir Fathima, Entrepreneur and home baker; Valli, an auto driver; and Sornam, an Entrepreneur, beautician, and artist. They shared real-life examples of life challenges and spoke on how they overcame them to achieve success.

Aravind-Coimbatore

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Aravind-Coimbatore hosted a session on “Holistic Health for Today’s Women” in collaboration with the Adolescent Health Academy (AHA) of Tamil Nadu and the Coimbatore branch of the Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP). The event commenced with Dr. Sandra Ganesh introducing the esteemed speakers, and Dr. Lakshmi Shanthi, President, IAP, presiding over the proceedings. Dr. Jeyashree Ashwathi, Secretary, AHA, Tamil Nadu, delivered an insightful talk on “Reproductive Health”, followed by Dr. Pradeep Kumar, Treasurer, AHA & Vice President, Indian Academy of Paediatrics, Kanyakumari, who provided valuable insights on nutrition and fitness. Lastly, Dr. Mohammed Ismail, Director, the Adolescent Health Academy, Tamil Nadu, delivered a special lecture on “Coping with Stress in Daily Life”.

Aravind-Pondicherry

Aravind-Pondicherry observed International Women’s Day with special talks and engaging games. A highlight of the day was a special pattimandram chaired by Karpagambal, a recipient of the Dr. Radhakrishnan Best Teacher award, making it a memorable occasion. The day was further enriched by a captivating speech from Dr. A. Muthamma, I.A.S., who shared her invaluable experiences on women empowerment across various fields.

Aravind-Tirupati

At Aravind-Tirupati, Women’s Day was celebrated with an Art from Waste competition themed “Celebrating Women”. Sasi Bindu Garu, a lawyer and external member of the Internal Complaints Committee, as the chief guest, delivered a talk emphasising steps towards creating an inclusive workplace. The programme concluded with a quiz competition organised by Aurosambaralu.

Aravind-Dindigul, 2^nd March

Organised by Aravind-Dindigul with the support of Aravind-Madurai, 50 smart vision glasses were provided to beneficiaries at Aravind Eye Hospital, Dindigul, as part of Project Drishti. This initiative was made possible through collaboration with the Rotary Club, Madras East and a donation from JM Frictech India.

Dr. Rekha, Medical Consultant, Aravind-Dindigul, delivered a warm welcome address, followed by a felicitation address by Dr. P. Vijayalakshmi, Senior Medical Consultant, Vision Rehabilitation Centre, Aravind-Madurai. Dr. R. Vigneshwar, Medical Consultant, Aravind-Dindigul was present during the occasion. Jeyaseeli Flora, Vision Rehabilitationist, and Muthuramalingam from the Refraction Department, Aravind-Madurai, coordinated the event.

Aravind-Theni, 26^th February

Aravind-Theni opened the Low Vision Clinic, a small initiative primarily focused on adult rehabilitation. Dr. P. Vijayalakshmi,  Dr. Datta, Chief Medical Officer, Aravind-Theni, and Jeyaseeli Flora, inaugurated the clinic. On the opening day, approximately 10 patients visited the clinic and received counselling about various Low Vision Aids and their benefits.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 26^th February

Dr. R. Ramakrishnan, and Dr. Meenakshi, CMO, Aravind-Tirunelveli, jointly inaugurated the fully automated Selectra ProM machine at the biochemistry lab.

Aravind-Pondicherry, 25^th February

Aravind-Pondicherry celebrated its hospital day in a grand manner. The event was graced by the presence of Dr. R. Kim, CMO, Aravind-Madurai. Dr. Naveen presented the annual report, highlighting a 2% increase in the annual patient turnout. Dr. R. Kim, and Dr. R. Venkatesh, CMO, Aravind-Pondicherry, gave the service awards, recognising the dedicated service of staff members completing 10, 20, and 30 years of experience.

Dr. S. Kavitha, Chief, Glaucoma Services, was awarded first prize, while Dr. Manavi D. Sindal, Chief, Retina-Vitrous Services, and Dr. Josephine Christy, Chief, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Services, received second prize for their research activities. Furthermore, Dr. Nandita and Dr. Ojus were honoured with the “Inspiring Innovators Award” for their creation of the device “UVlyser”, securing the third position. The celebration also featured cultural performances, including dances by the children of doctors, dance by MLOPs, a musical fusion by doctors, and a mesmerising shadow art display.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 22^nd February

Eral Vision Centre has been shifted to a new building following damages incurred by recent floods at the previous location. A small inaugural ceremony was held, graced by the presence of several dignitaries, including Sundar, Secretary, Trade Union; Arunachalam, Association Treasurer, Lions Club & Trade; Dharmara, Vice President, Trade Union; Sudalaimuthu, a Trade Union Member; Mahalakshmi, Ward Councillor; Sivabalan, a local businessman; and the community members. Representatives from Aravind-Tirunelveli, including Dr. Jaisri Priya, Dr. Karthikeyan, and Shanmuga Sundari, Clinical Manager, Vision Centres, Raja Sathya Selvi, Nursing Superintendent, Saradha, Patient Care Manager, Stephen, Vision Centre Coordinator, and Natarajan, Electrician, actively managed the event.

Aravind-Tirupati, 24^th February

As part of the “My Life My Pride” initiative spearheaded by G. Krishna Veni, Administrator, LAICO, MLOPs have been undergoing training in a variety of extracurricular activities, including Taekwondo and dance. After completing two months of training, and following a grading exam for the yellow belt on 4^th February, a certificate award ceremony was held on 24^th February. Anupama, who conducts life skill classes for the MLOPs, and Dr. Ashok Vardhan, CMO, Aravind-Tirupati, distributed the certificates and yellow belts. Sangeetha, Nursing Superintendent, provided an overview of the MLOP committees such as wellness, hostel, academic, and My Life My Pride as well as their responsibilities. This approach fosters a sense of shared ownership between management and MLOPs, symbolised by badges, offering a sense of pride. During the feedback session, several MLOPs shared how the “My Life My Pride” programme has significantly boosted their self-confidence, empowering them to feel bolder when travelling alone. The event also featured captivating performances by both the dance and Taekwondo students.

Aravind-Tirupati, 23^rd February

In an on-going effort to train MLOPs and raise awareness about the importance of spectacles and proper medication usage among both the public and staff, the optical and pharmacy departments collaborated to organise a one-day exhibition. The exhibition attracted patients and staff, who expressed their appreciation for the team’s initiatives.

Aravind-Madurai, 22^nd February

Aravind-Madurai organised Angaadi, a unique charity event where all employees donated their unused items. These items were categorised and sold at different stalls, creating a fun shopping experience exclusively for hospital employees. Additionally, auctions, fun games, and food stalls were arranged. The funds raised through the sale of these items were donated to Adaikalam Old Age Home, Tirunagar, Madurai, and Blessed Special Kids Home, Vilangudi, Madurai.

Aravind-Salem, 22^nd February

Boomi Pooja ceremony for the new hospital building and quarters in Aravind-Salem took place, graced by the presence of esteemed guests including Dr. P. Namperumalsamy, Chairman Emeritus, Aravind Eye Care System (AECS), Dr. G. Natchiar, Director Emeritus, AECS, R.D. Thulasiraj, Executive Director, LAICO, Dr. S. Aravind, CMO, Aravind-Chennai, and the senior leadership team. The new building, spanning 2.25 lakh sq. ft., will be constructed on a 7-acre plot of land. Dr. B. Manohar Babu, CMO, Aravind-Salem, thanked the senior leadership team for expediting the project, which is expected to be completed within 1.5 years in 2026.

Aravind-Pondicherry, 18^th February

The one-day Retina4U CME organised by Aravind-Pondicherry, focusing on Intravitreal injections, was led by Dr. Manavi D. Sindal,  Dr. Sivaranjani, Retina Consultant, and the organising committee. The event was graced by Dr. Hannah, Consultant, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Science, Dr. Roshini Mohan, Retina Consultant, Agarwals Eye Hospital, Chennai, Dr. Nagesha, Retina Consultant, Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore, and Dr. Sivaranjani.

The programme commenced with the welcome address by Dr. R. Venkatesh, followed by ceremonial lamp lighting. The conference featured talks by speakers from leading institutes and internal speakers including, Dr. Manavi D Sindal, Dr. Prabu Baskaran, Dr. Sivaranjani, and Dr. Preet Kanwar Singh Sodhi. A wide spectrum of topics in Intravitreal injections such as retinal vascular disorder, age-related macular degeneration, inflammations, and infections including the intravitreal injection technique were discussed in detail. A total of 117 participants comprising ophthalmologists, fellows, and postgraduates from various colleges attended the CME.

Aravind-Coimbatore, 18^th February

The 5^th edition of the CME on “Dry labs for postgraduates” organised by Aravind-Coimbatore saw the participation of 190 delegates from 36 institutions from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The delegates were divided into nine groups and rotated to nine stations namely cornea, glaucoma, retina 1, retina 2, neuro-ophthalmology, squint, orbit, retinoscopy and electrophysiological studies. There were 12 mentors guiding 20 faculty members, and conducting the dry labs. A booklet with 17 write-ups was given to the delegates. Dr. V. Narendran, CMO, Aravind-Coimbatore, was the chairperson of the organising committee and Dr. D. Chandrasekhar, Consultant & NABH Coordinator as well as Dr. Parag Shah, Chief, Paediatric Retina & Ocular Oncology Services were the coordinators. The Programme was accredited with two hours for delegates and three hours for faculty by the Tamil Nadu Medical Council.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 17^th February

Aravind-Tirunelveli celebrated its 36th Hospital day with great jubilation. Esteemed guests Dr. P. Namperumalsamy, Dr. G. Natchiar, R.D. Thulasiraj, and Chitra Thulasiraj, Aravind Communications,  graced the occasion.

The programme commenced with a prayer song by Nandhini. Dr. R. Meenakshi welcomed the gathering. Dr. Sherin Haroon, Medical consultant, presented the activity report for the year 2022-2023. During the occasion, a milestone video showcasing Aravind-Tirunelveli’s journey was screened. Dr. R. Ramakrishnan delivered a special address, and Jagatheesan, a well-wisher of Aravind Eye Hospital, shared his journey with Aravind.

Dr. P. Namperumalsamy and Dr. G. Natchiar delivered motivational speeches, leaving a lasting impact on all present. Service Awards were given to staff members, acknowledging their dedication and contributions. The event was further adorned with cultural programmes performed by doctors and MLOPs. Dr. R. Madhavi, Medical Consultant, Glaucoma Services delivered the vote of thanks. Lakshmi R, HR Manager, led the proceedings as the master of the ceremony. The delightful evening concluded with dinner.

Madurai, 13^th February

Conducted by the Rotary Aravind International Eye Bank (RAIEB), Aravind-Madurai, the session took place at the Primary Health Centre in Kannagudi, Sivagangai. D. Saravanan, Manager, RAIEB, led the session focusing on the Hospital cornea retrieval programme and highlighting the significance of healthcare professionals in promoting eye donation. The session saw active participation from 40 attendees, including doctors and nurses.

Aravind-Madurai, 9^th February

Aravind inaugurated its 112th vision centre in Samayanallur, Madurai, with the ceremony officiated by Dr. Usha Kim, Regional HR Director, Aravind-Madurai.

The event witnessed the esteemed presence of Dr. A. Kowsalya, Doctor In charge, Madurai Vision Centre, and Dr. Priyagini, Medical Consultant, Aravind-Madurai, Saikat Palit, Project Coordinator, Seva Foundation, along with the community members including, Tambi Durai, Panchayat President, Samayanallur, Bagavath Singh, Trade Union President, Vivagananthan, Camp Sponsor, and Murugesan, Camp Organisers.

Under the coordination of Begam, MLOP HR Coordinator, alongside Jhansi, Pitchaimeena, and Aathi Parasakthi from the vision centre team, the event was effectively managed. Kalai Selvi, VC Coordinator from Sholavanthan Vision Centre, will provide mentorship and assistance to the new VC staff during their initial week. On the opening day, the centre attended to 67 patients, with 5 referred for cataract surgery, 10 prescribed eyeglasses, and 5 placing orders for glasses.