Aravind-Tirupati, 20^th December 2025

Aravind-Tirupati celebrated its 7th Hospital Day on the theme “50 Years of Aravind.” For the first time, the programme was held in the quarters garden, with all decorations being handcrafted by AOPs.  As part of the programme, Dr. Ashok Vardhan, CMO, Aravind-Tirupati, delivered the welcome address, followed by the presentation of the Annual Report by Dr. Keerthi Gayam, Medical Consultant, Glaucoma Services, Aravind-Tirupati. Service Awards for 5 and 15 years were then presented to employees. Kannamma Ravindran presented the 100% On-Time Attendance Award. Awards were also given to the winning team of Aurosambaralu, as well as for the Hostel Best Rooms Award and Best Wing Award. Dr. Kalpana Narendran released the AOP newsletter for the year 2025.

The event featured an inspiring address by the Guest of Honour, Thiru. K. Ranganatham, who spoke on Aravind’s spiritual role, followed by the Chief Guest, Dr. Jagadish, who shared how the hospital and Dr. V had influenced him personally. The cultural programme, organised by AOPs, showcased Aravind’s 50-year journey. The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Kesava Kumar, General Manager, followed by the National Anthem and a delicious dinner.

Aravind-Coimbatore, 17-18 December 2025

The Retina Department of Aravind-Coimbatore, in association with Alcon, organised a two-day Surgical Skills Enhancement Programme for final-year vitreoretinal fellows, aimed at improving surgical skills and clinical decision-making in vitreoretinal surgery. The programme was conducted under the guidance of Dr. V. Narendran, Chief Medical Officer, Aravind-Coimbatore, and Dr. V.R. Saravanan, Chief, Retina-Vitreous Services, Aravind-Coimbatore.

The academic sessions covered key topics such as surgical ergonomics, advanced diagnostic techniques, intraocular fluids and gases, and recent advances in vitrectomy systems. Faculty members also discussed the management of complex retinal conditions, including diabetic tractional retinal detachment, macular holes, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, endophthalmitis, high myopic retinal detachment, open globe injuries, and intraocular foreign bodies.

The programme featured interactive video-based case discussions, exposure to three-dimensional visualisation systems, and hands-on wet lab training using the Alcon Constellation platform. These sessions enabled fellows to gain practical experience and develop strategies to manage intraoperative challenges and complications.

A total of 18 fellows from Aravind Eye Hospitals in Madurai, Chennai, Pondicherry, Tirupati, Tirunelveli, and Coimbatore participated in the programme.

Aravind-Pondicherry, 21^st December 2025

Aravind-Pondicherry organised the Technology Skill Transfer Course (TSTC) to strengthen teaching and communication skills through the effective use of technology. Designed for both students and mentors, the course focused on enhancing teaching and learning through the mindful use of AI tools, creating authentic and engaging PowerPoint presentations, and developing skills in video editing.

A special highlight of the programme was the talk titled “What Surgery Could Teach Us” by Dr. Deepak Meghur, in which he shared his journey toward becoming a globally respected mentor. His reflections deeply resonated with the participants, emphasising how the sharing of experience can transform surgical skills and professional growth.

Overall, the programme fostered a renewed enthusiasm to learn, explore emerging technologies, and continuously refine educational practices through shared experiences and collective growth among colleagues.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 17^th December 2025

A Ward Exhibition was organised at Aravind-Tirunelveli with the objective of creating awareness about the vital functions and responsibilities of the Ward Department. The exhibition highlighted the crucial role of ward services in ensuring quality patient care, safety, effective coordination, and the smooth functioning of hospital operations.

The exhibition was inaugurated by Dr. R. Ramakrishnan, Advisor, Aravind-Tirunelveli, in the presence of Dr. R. Meenakshi, CMO, Aravind-Tirunelveli.  Through informative displays, charts, and demonstrations, the exhibition showcased various aspects of ward management, including patient admission and discharge procedures, infection control practices, and documentation processes.

Aravind-Coimbatore,12^th December 2025

A safety awareness session for security personnel and escalator staff was organised and conducted by Shivalingam, Service Engineer, Johnson Lift Industries. The session focused on safety procedures, proper handling, and preventive measures related to the operation and maintenance of escalators. Important guidelines, emergency handling practices, and safety precautions were explained in detail to ensure safe and efficient operations.

The programme was informative and beneficial, enhancing safety awareness among the staff and reinforcing the importance of adhering to standard safety practices.

Aravind-Salem, 14^th December 2025

Aravind-Salem has been serving the eye-care needs of the western region of Tamil Nadu since 2011, operating from Nethimedu, Salem. To meet the growing demand for quality eye care, Aravind-Salem opened its new hospital building at a nearby location in Uthamacholapuram, along the Salem-Coimbatore Highway.

The new building was inaugurated by the Honourable Supreme Court Justice Thiru. R. Mahadevan. The inaugural event began with Dr. B. Manohar Babu, CMO, Aravind-Salem, delivering the welcome address. Dr. R. Kim, President, GOVEL Trust, presented an overview of the Aravind Eye Care System (AECS), while Dr. S. Aravind, Director-Projects, AECS, highlighted key projects undertaken across AECS. Dr. G. Natchiar, Director Emeritus, AECS, and Dr. R.D. Ravindran, Chairman, AECS, delivered the felicitation addresses. The Guest of Honour, Dr. M. Ramasamy, visionary Founder and Chairman of Rasi Seeds (P) Ltd., Salem, delivered the special address. The chief guest address was delivered by Honourable Justice Thiru. R. Mahadevan.

The construction agencies involved in the project were honoured during the occasion. The vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. J. Anuja, Medical Consultant, Cornea & Refractive Surgery, Aravind-Salem.

The programme was attended by several distinguished guests, including Thulasiraj Ravilla, Executive Director Emeritus, LAICO, Dr. V. Narendran, CMO, Aravind-Coimbatore, Dr. R. Ramakrishnan, Advisor, Aravind-Tirunelveli, Dr. N. Venkatesh Prajna, Director – Finance, AECS, and many others.

This state-of-the-art facility, spread across 2.5 lakh square feet on seven acres of land, has the capacity to serve 2,000 patients per day and perform 150 surgeries daily through 14 operation theatres. The hospital houses all ophthalmic subspecialty units and offers parking facilities for up to 300 cars, housing facilities for doctors, and hostel facilities for PGs and AOPs, significantly strengthening Aravind-Salem’s ability to deliver comprehensive and advanced eye care.

Aravind-Madurai, 7^th December 2025

Organised by Aravind-Madurai, the workshop on Master MSICS Techniques included classroom lectures, video sessions on handling complex cases, and hands-on practice using simulators and animal eyes. A total of 43 participants, including internal doctors and doctors from various medical colleges, benefited from the workshop. The sessions were moderated by faculty members from the Cataract Clinic and HelpMeSee.

Aravind-Madurai, 5-6 December 2025

The Personnel Department of Aravind-Madurai organised a CME programme titled, “SPARK,” that began with a welcome address by Dr. R. Kim, CMO, Aravind-Madurai. During the programme, Dr. G. Natchiar emphasised the need to reduce absenteeism among the administrative cadre and to create greater awareness of employee benefits.

Deepa, Manager, Central HRD, delivered a session on “Be Proactive,” one of The 7 Habits. Santha, Programmer, presented the new initiatives implemented in the attendance database. A group activity was conducted, with participants divided into five groups to discuss report automation and related topics.

A special address on the roles and responsibilities of the Personnel Department and integrity was delivered by Dr. Usha Kim. Several sessions covering topics such as NABH requirements, monthly reports, payroll processes, EPFO updates, recent Central Government amendments to the Code on Wages and Contract Labour, and the Personnel Calendar were presented by internal members. The meeting concluded with the consolidation of group discussions, which were presented to Dr. R.D. Ravindran.

Theni, 3^rd December 2025

An eye donation awareness programme was conducted at the Government Hospital, Periyakulam, Theni, in collaboration with the Hospital. The programme was presided over by the Joint Director of Health Services, Theni. A session on eye donation, the Hospital Cornea Retrieval Programme (HCRP), and the importance of healthcare professionals in promoting eye donation was conducted by D. Saravanan, Manager, Eye Bank, Aravind-Madurai. A total of 70 personnel, including the CMO, MS, doctors, nurses, and support staff, participated in the programme.

Aravind – Tirunelveli, 3^rd December 2025

Aravind-Tirunelveli observed World Disability Day by giving special attention to low vision patients, children with special needs, and children with Cortical/Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI). To mark the occasion, an exhibition was inaugurated by Dr. R. Ramakrishnan, along with Dr. Meenakshi, CMO, Aravind-Tirunelveli, and Dr. Fathima, Medical Consultant and Low Vision In-Charge, Aravind-Tirunelveli.

The exhibition featured informative charts, vision stimulation toys, various types of low vision magnifiers, and a demonstration of the AURA Vision Glass, displayed on a TV to help visitors better understand its use. The Low Vision Clinic distributed crayons and drawing materials to visually challenged and CVI children to support the development of eye-hand coordination, encourage creativity, and boost confidence.

The exhibition was held over four days and was visited by patients, doctors, fellows, and AOPs. Nearly 300 visitors attended the exhibition in total.

Aravind-Salem, 26-27 November 2025

The pooja accommodation options for staff, students, and visiting guests.

The ceremonies were graced by the esteemed presence of Dr. B. Manohar Babu, CMO, Aravind-Salem, Hima Bindu, Dr. Sankarananthan, Medical Consultant, Cataract Services, Aravind-Salem, and Dr. R. Janani, Medical Consultant, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus Services, Aravind-Salem. The rituals were performed in accordance with traditional customs, invoking blessings for prosperity, safety, and the smooth functioning of the newly established facilities.

Aravind-Tirupati, 24-26 November 2025

Aravind-Tirupati conducted a three-day training programme titled “Peek Community Training Workshop: Field Tests” as part of the Creating Access to Rural Eyecare (CARE) project, which is being implemented in the service area of the Aravind Eye Clinic, Puttur. The primary objective of the workshop was to equip Eye Care Field Workers with the skills to conduct door-to-door and school eye screenings using the Peek application. A total of five Eye Care Field Workers participated in the training.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Ashok Vardhan, CMO, Aravind-Tirupati. On the final day, participants were taken to selected village schools to conduct vision and eye screenings using the Peek application in a live field setting. The workshop was facilitated by Mohd Javed, Peek Software User Trainer, Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, and M. J. Vighnesh, Peek Vision India.

Aravind doctors participated in a series of eye health awareness programmes hosted by All India Radio (AIR) from June to November 2025. These sessions aimed to educate the public about common eye conditions and the importance of early care.

Talks by Aravind Doctors:

Dr. Kalpana Narendran, Chief, IOL & Cataract Service, Aravind-Coimbatore, discussed paediatric cataract on 26th June 2025, emphasising the need for early detection and treatment to prevent long-term vision loss in children.

Dr. P. Mangala, Chief, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Services, Aravind-Coimbatore, spoke about the importance of eye donation on 23rd September 2025, explaining how donated eyes can restore sight and encouraging listeners to pledge their eyes.

Dr. Sandra Ganesh, Medical Consultant, Paediatric Services, Aravind-Coimbatore, raised awareness on 20th November 2025 about myopia, noting its increasing prevalence among children and stressing the importance of regular eye check-ups and healthy visual habits.

On World Prematurity Day (21st November 2025), Dr. S. Prema, Medical Consultant, Paediatric Services, Aravind-Coimbatore, talked about Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) and highlighted the need for early eye screening in premature babies.

Dr. Premanand discussed glaucoma on 27th November 2025, focusing on the importance of monitoring eye pressure and recognising this silent, vision-threatening disease early.

As part of World Diabetes Day (28th November 2025), Dr. A.S. Prashanth, Medical Consultant, Retina-Vitreous Services, Aravind-Coimbatore, delivered a session on diabetic retinopathy, urging individuals with diabetes to undergo routine eye examinations to prevent vision complications.

These AIR programmes helped the public better understand various eye conditions and encouraged timely care to protect and preserve vision.