Madurai, 19 & 24th August 2026

As part of the Resident Social Responsibility initiative, two teams of residents visited Dr. T. Thirugunam Higher Secondary School, Madurai, and Government Kallar Higher Secondary School, Chekkanoorani, Madurai, on 19 and 24 August 2026, respectively, to understand the needs of students, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds.

The students warmly welcomed the teams and enthusiastically showcased their talents through dance performances, speeches, and Thirukkural recitations. School bags, water bottles, tiffin boxes, books, and stationery were distributed to the students, bringing them great joy. Dr. N. Venkatesh Prajna handed over the educational materials and addressed the students on both occasions.

The visits were a meaningful experience, highlighting the importance of empathy, resilience, and compassionate mentorship in supporting children in need.

Aravind-Chennai, 21-23 August 2026

Aravind-Chennai launched the EYERis Lab on the first floor, marking a new step towards advancing research, innovation, and impact in eye care. Rajendra Mootha, Head, New Initiatives, IITM Pravartak and former COO, IIT Madras Research Park, inaugurated the lab in the presence of Dr. R. Venkatesh, CMO, Aravind-Pondicherry.

A special highlight of the launch was the Midterm Hackathon 2026, held on the same day. The three-day programme brought together doctors, engineers, and healthcare professionals to address real-world clinical challenges through innovative and impactful solutions. The event was sponsored by Aurolab.

Of the 38 problem statements received, 12 were shortlisted. A total of 786 applications were received from nine institutions, with 36 participants selected to take part in the hackathon. The judging panel, comprising internal and external members, provided valuable expertise, feedback, and encouragement to the participating teams throughout the event.

Prizes worth up to Rs. 1,00,000 were awarded to the winning teams. The first prize went to the Tirunelveli team, led by Dr. Sarita Ravindran, Fellow, for Ergo Fit. The second prize was awarded to the Tirupati team, led by R. Nivetha, Biomedical Engineer, for Cotoxa. The third prize was jointly awarded to Tono Clear, developed by the Madurai and Tirupati teams and led by K. Rajathi, VC Technician, and Dr. Aneesh Aggarwal, DNB. A Special Mention was awarded to Lid Lift, led by Dr. Lakshana Malla Lokanathan, Chennai.

Aravind-Salem, 23^rd August 2026

Organised by Aravind-Salem, the CME on “Optometry Beyond 20/20 – Future of Optometric Care” was attended by 213 participants. The programme featured a series of insightful and interactive academic sessions covering contemporary aspects of optometry, including retinoscopy, subjective refraction, vision assessment, resolving power, contact lenses, optical dispensing, myopia control, and various aspects of refraction and vision assessment.

Dr. R. Janani, Medical Consultant, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus Services, Aravind-Salem, delivered the welcome address, setting an inspiring tone for the programme. A key highlight of the CME was the highly engaging hands-on training and group discussion session. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Saranya, Medical Consultant, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus Services, Aravind-Salem.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 21^st August 2026

Aravind-Tirunelveli inaugurated the Electrophysiology Diagnosis & Hereditary Ophthalmic Paediatric Disorders Evaluation (H.O.P.E.) Clinic. Through the HOPE Project, with generous support from the Aravind Eye Foundation (AEF), the clinic is equipped with a new Electrophysiology (ERG/EOG/VEP) diagnostic device to provide specialised care for children with inherited ocular disorders.

Dr. Monika Rana, IAS, Commissioner, Tirunelveli City Municipal Corporation, inaugurated the HOPE Clinic and the ERG equipment in the presence of doctors, AOPs, and administrative staff from various departments.

The clinic will help families understand the risk of hereditary conditions associated with genetic eye disorders and provide guidance for family planning. The Electrophysiology (ERG/EOG/VEP) equipment will further help assess retinal function and aid in the diagnosis and prognostic evaluation of retinal disorders.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 20^th August 2026

As part of its continuous staff development and patient service excellence initiatives, Aravind-Tirunelveli conducted the workshop for staff members of the Opticals and Medicals departments. The workshop aimed to reinforce the values of compassion, courtesy, and excellence in every patient interaction.

The session was facilitated by Prasath, Sales Effectiveness Trainer, ZEISS India, who delivered an engaging and insightful programme focused on enhancing the patient experience through compassionate service and effective communication. The workshop included real-life case discussions, role plays, and customer-centric service scenarios, encouraging participants to reflect on their daily practices and identify ways to exceed patient expectations.

Aravind-Coimbatore, 18^th August 2026

The preliminary round of “GlauQuest,” a nationwide PG quiz competition organised by the Glaucoma Society of India (GSI) in association with Ajanta Pharma, was conducted at Aravind-Coimbatore.

Dr. Krutin Jugal Shah secured the first prize and received a certificate and a cash prize of Rs. 5,000. Dr. Dhruv Chetan Kharkande won the second prize and received Rs. 3,000, while Dr. Rhea Susan secured the third prize and received Rs. 2,000. Dr. Ganesh V. Raman, Chief, Glaucoma Services, Aravind-Coimbatore, distributed the prizes.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 15-16 August 2026

A two-day academic and surgical skill transfer programme on flanged Scleral-Fixated Intraocular Lens (SFIOL) surgery was conducted at Aravind-Tirunelveli, bringing together ophthalmologists from various Aravind centres as well as eye-care professionals from outside the organisation.  The first day programme focused on surgical skill transfer for ophthalmologists from across Aravind. Eleven ophthalmologists participated, with each surgeon performing a flanged SFIOL procedure under supervision and assistance. Further, a post-operative round enabled participants to review the operated cases together and discuss surgical outcomes and practical nuances.

The second day featured an academic CME programme attended by ophthalmologists from Aravind centres and outside the organisation. The sessions covered the principles and practical aspects of anterior vitrectomy and the step-by-step technique of flanged SFIOL surgery. Interactive round-table discussions further explored the applications of flanged techniques, surgical nuances and the management of associated complications.

A key highlight was the hands-on wet lab, where participants practiced the flanged SFIOL technique using a silicone model eye. Interestingly, the model was originally designed at Aurolab by Dr. Janani for practicing squint surgery. Its potential for simulating the steps of flanged SFIOL surgery was later explored, and it proved to be a remarkably effective training tool for the workshop.

Madurai, 14^th August 2026

As part of the Resident Social Responsibility initiative, a team of Aravind residents comprising Dr. Vijayalakshmi, Dr. Kathleen Mary Sheeba, Dr. Lavanya A., Dr. Balasubramanian, Dr. Siju S. Nivya, and Dr. Akhil Karamsetty visited the Rotary Madurai Midtown Community Trust Integrated Study Centre. The team distributed useful reference books to the students, purchased through a generous contribution of Rs. 2 lakh from Dr. N. Venkatesh Prajna, Director Finance, AECS. The students were organised into groups of three, with one book provided to each group in a systematic manner.

Many of the students come from challenging socio-economic backgrounds, and this kind of supports encourage them to pursue their studies with greater confidence. The initiative was a meaningful experience for the residents, reaffirming the importance of extending support and opportunities to the wider community.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 14^th August 2026

The ELITA SILK Machine was installed at Aravind-Tirunelveli, marking another significant advancement in refractive surgical services.

The machine was inaugurated by Thiru Anand Mohan, IAS, District Collector, Tirunelveli, in the presence of Dr. R. Ramakrishnan, Advisor, Aravind-Tirunelveli, Dr. R. Meenakshi, CMO, Aravind-Tirunelveli, and Dr. Anitha V., Chief, Cornea & Refractive Surgery Services, Aravind-Tirunelveli. The Collector was given a detailed overview of the ELITA SILK technology, its functioning, and its advantages in advanced refractive surgery. He interacted with the team, and clarified his queries regarding the technology and its potential benefits to patients.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 14^th August 2026

To foster teamwork and create a joyful learning environment, the Nursing Superintendent and Academic Team of Aravind-Tirunelveli, organised a series of interactive games for the newly recruited AOPs. The event was held in the presence of Dr. R. Meenakshi, and Dr. Padmavathy, Regional HR Director. The games included Relay Race, Lemon with Spoon, Multitasking, and Balloon Saving where participants actively engaged with enthusiasm and excellent sportsmanship, making it both enjoyable and meaningful. The programme concluded with inspiring words from Dr. Jaisripriya, MLOP In-charge Doctor 2.

Aravind-Chennai, 11-12 August 2026

The 8^th Batch of AKSHIVIKAS – Aravind Advanced Cataract Course was conducted at the ARCORE Training Centre, Aravind-Chennai, with the aim of enhancing participants’ knowledge and surgical skills in advanced cataract management. The programme featured a comprehensive blend of academic sessions, practical demonstrations, case-based discussions, surgical videos, and interactive sessions with experienced faculty.

Dr. M. Nivean, MS (Oph), FMRF, Academic Director & Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon, MN Eye Hospital Pvt. Ltd., delivered sessions on “Pearls for Managing PCR and Anterior Vitrectomy” and “CMT Flex SF IOL,” offering valuable insights and practical strategies for complex cataract cases.

Dr. Haripriya, Chief, Cataract & IOL Services, Aravind-Chennai, conducted a session on IOL exchange and presented a video demonstration of the Modified Iris-Fixated IOL technique, providing practical guidance on managing challenging IOL-related cases. A total of 33 practicing ophthalmologists from various parts of India participated.

Aravind-Tuticorin, 11^th August, 2026

Aravind-Tuticorin conducted comprehensive eye screening camps across schools, workplaces, and the general community. While these initiatives have reached thousands of people, the team recognised that several vulnerable groups, including residents of old age homes, orphanages, homes for destitute women, and institutions for those with hearing and speech impairments, often face challenges in accessing eye care services. To ensure that no one is left behind, the Aravind-Tuticorin team took eye care directly to these communities by organising special outreach camps during the afternoons at their respective premises.

A total of eight special outreach camps were conducted, screening 525 people. Of those screened, 121 (23%) were advised spectacles, of whom 114 received them. Cataract surgery was advised for 61 people (12%), and 36 underwent surgery, including two paediatric cataract surgeries. In addition, 48 people (7%) were referred to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

Aravind-Salem, 10^th August 2026

Aravind-Salem observed World Strabismus Day by creating awareness among the public about strabismus (squint), emphasising the importance of early detection and timely treatment.

As part of the observance, awareness posters on strabismus were displayed across the hospital premises. Parents and the public were also encouraged not to ignore signs such as misalignment of the eyes or one eye turning in a different direction, particularly in children, and were advised to consult an eye specialist at the earliest.

Aravind-Tirunelveli, 8^th August 2026

Aravind-Tirunelveli, in collaboration with C1 Junction Police Station, organised an Anti-Drug Awareness Rally under the theme “Together for a Drug-Free Society.”

Aju Kumar, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Tirunelveli Junction, inaugurated the rally and delivered an insightful address on the harmful impact of drug abuse on social stability and family life. He emphasised the urgent need for collective efforts to eradicate drug abuse from society. Dr. Ramakrishnan encouraged the youth to take an active role in shaping a healthier and drug-free future. The event concluded with doctors, staff, and police personnel taking a solemn anti-drug pledge, reaffirming their commitment to building a drug-free society.

Aravind-Pondicherry, 12^th July 2026

Aravind-Pondicherry hosted this collaborative initiative organised by Aurodhan and Aravind-Pondicherry, bringing together visionaries, institutional partners, and delegates to celebrate sustainability and innovation. This premier gathering featured an address by the esteemed Chief Guest, Padma Shri Arunachalam Muruganantham, a social entrepreneur from Coimbatore. From strategic panel discussions to the ‘Dolphin Pool’ start-up presentations, the festival showcased the immense potential of homegrown solutions in addressing global challenges.

Aravind-Pondicherry, 6-7 August 2026

Aravind-Pondicherry conducted a two-day Cardiac Screening Camp for its staff and their parents, as part of its ongoing efforts to promote preventive healthcare and overall well-being among the Aravind family. The initiative focused on early detection and timely intervention for potential cardiac conditions.

Apollo Hospitals brought its state-of-the-art Apollo Mobile Unit to the hospital campus, while Chengam Gold Centennial Lions Club, Chengam, extended valuable support in organising the camp. The participants benefited from comprehensive heart health assessments, consultations with cardiac specialists, and essential cardiac check-ups.

Aravind-Coimbatore, 5-6 August 2026

Aravind-Coimbatore, in collaboration with Alcon, conducted a two-day AAMIVS Fellowship Skill Enhancement Programme for vitreo-retinal fellows. The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. V. Narendran, CMO, Aravind-Coimbatore, followed by an overview of the course by Dr. V. R. Saravanan.

The first day featured academic sessions covering various aspects of vitreoretinal surgery, including surgical ergonomics, viewing systems, vitreous substitutes, retinal detachment surgery, PVR management, diabetic vitrectomy, complex TRD in PDR, small-gauge vitrectomy, and macular hole surgery. A live video discussion session was also conducted.

The second day focused on challenging vitreoretinal cases, including open-globe trauma, traumatic retinal detachment, intraocular foreign bodies, endophthalmitis, retinal detachment in high myopia, giant retinal tears, and the use of 3D visualisation in complex vitreoretinal surgery. Sessions on reducing instrument reuse and maintaining the VR logbook were also included, providing practical guidance on improving surgical practices. The programme was attended by 15 fellows from various Aravind centres.

Aravind-Coimbatore, 3^rd August 2026 

The Human Resources, Personnel, and Accounts Departments of Aravind-Coimbatore have moved to a newly renovated and thoughtfully redesigned office space on the ground floor of the Old Building. The new workspace was inaugurated by Dr. V. Narendran, CMO, Aravind-Coimbatore. The redesigned space provides a more conducive and organised work environment, fostering greater collaboration and enhancing efficiency among the teams.

Aravind – Madurai, 2^nd August 

Aravind-Madurai organised a workshop on Central Sterile Services Department (CSSD) practices, focusing on microorganisms, water quality, cleaning chemistry, and the validation processes required in CSSD. Shailesh Mehta, Director, Medovation, led the session and facilitated the discussions. The programme was attended by 49 participants, including two doctors from Aravind Eye Hospitals in Theni and Dindigul, as well as one microbiologist, one Quality Manager, and 45 AOPs from CSSDs across 16 hospitals.

Coimbatore, 31^st June to 2^nd August 2026

The Aravind Neuro-Ophthalmology Navigator (ANON), a compact pocket handbook, was officially released at KOVEYE 2026, the 73rd Annual Conference of the Tamil Nadu Ophthalmic Association (TNOA), held in Coimbatore.

Developed by the Aravind Neuro-Ophthalmology Team, ANON was designed to help postgraduate trainees navigate neuro-ophthalmology with confidence and serve as a quick reference guide, promoting structured clinical reasoning and enhancing learning in the busy outpatient setting. The handbook provides practical OPD algorithms and a systematic, step-by-step approach to the diagnosis and management of common neuro-ophthalmic clinical scenarios encountered in day-to-day practice. The handbook was well received by postgraduates across Tamil Nadu, who appreciated its concise, user-friendly format and practical clinical approach.

Aravind-Salem, 9^th August 2026

The Campus Cleaning – Warrior Group has successfully completed four weeks of cleaning activities. Dr. Manohar Babu and the team members actively participate every Sunday to keep the campus clean, tidy, and well-maintained. The initiative continues to grow, with new members joining the team and contributing to the effort. The consistent cleaning activities have made a visible difference by reducing waste and significantly improving the overall cleanliness of the campus.

Aravind-Salem, 7-8 August 2026

Aravind-Salem, in association with Dr. Typhagne Memorial Charitable (DTMC) Trust, Salem, organised a special eye screening camp for patients affected by leprosy. A total of 75 patients were screened on the first day, of whom 34 were advised to undergo cataract surgery. The patients were transported to the base hospital, where they underwent cataract surgery the following day.

Aravind-Salem, 29^th July 2026

A MoU was signed between Vinayaka Mission Kirubanandha Variyar Medical College and Aravind Eye Hospital to facilitate the sharing of academic activities between the two institutions. Dr. B. Manohar Babu, Dr. Ezhil Vendan, Dean, Vinayaka Mission, Dr. Sozhamadevi, HOD, Ophthalmology, Vinayaka Mission, and other senior officials from both institutions were present on the occasion and formally signed the MoU.

Natham, 29^th July 2026

In collaboration with the Government Hospital, Natham, Aravind-Madurai conducted an Eye Donation Awareness Programme for healthcare professionals. The session covered eye donation, the Hospital Cornea Retrieval Program (HCRP), and the important role of healthcare professionals in facilitating eye donation. The session was led by D. Saravanan, Manager, Eye Bank, Aravind-Madurai, and was attended by 20 participants, including doctors, nurses, and support staff.

Aravind-Thanjavur, 29^th July 2026

Aravind-Thanjavur organised a motivational session aimed at strengthening professional excellence, fostering personal development. V.S. Govindarajan, Administrative Officer, LIC, Thanjavur, and a renowned national trainer, led the session, emphasising the importance of values, a positive attitude, discipline, and organisational culture in achieving success in both professional and personal life. The session left participants inspired to embrace these principles in their daily work and personal lives.

Aravind-Madurai, 29-30 July 2026

Organised by Aravind-Madurai for male refraction staff members, the programme was designed to strengthen their understanding of the institution’s values and broader mission in eye care, enhance their professional knowledge, and motivate them towards personal and career growth. The programme also included discussions on their professional roles and responsibilities.

Dr. R.D. Ravindran, Chairman, AECS, Dr. R. Kim, CMO, Aravind-Madurai, and Dr. Usha Kim, Regional HR Director, Madurai Region, addressed the participants. During her interaction with the group, Dr. G. Natchiar emphasised that male staff members are equally valued and have equal opportunities for growth within the organisation.

As part of the programme, the participants visited the Base Hospital, LAICO, AMRF, Aurofarm, and Nithyatha, gaining first-hand exposure to various departments and their functioning. The programme also featured an informative session on the employee benefits available at Aravind and concluded with a clinical case discussion.

Aravind-Salem, 27^th July 2026

As part of its community support initiatives, Aravind-Salem donated a wheelchair and a digital BP apparatus to the Uthamacholapuram Rural Primary Health Centre (PHC). Dr. B. Manohar Babu handed over the wheelchair to the beneficiary.

In commemoration of World Brain Day 2026, the Department of Neuro-Ophthalmology, Aravind-Tirunelveli, organised an educational exhibition to promote awareness about brain health, early recognition of neurological conditions, timely referral, and equitable access to specialised care.

Focusing on the theme “The Eye as a Window to the Brain,” the exhibition featured educational posters, interactive displays, and visual exhibits highlighting the intricate relationship between the eye and the brain. The exhibits showcased the visual manifestations of various neurological disorders and emphasised the importance of recognising ocular symptoms as potential early indicators of underlying neurological conditions.

Aravind – Madurai, 20-25 July 2026

A team of seven practicing ophthalmologists from Angola participated in an observation programme on cataract surgery under the guidance of Dr. Madhu Shekhar, Chief, Cataract Services, Aravind-Madurai. The programme included lectures on SICS and phacoemulsification, interactive surgical video discussions, observation of live cataract surgeries, and hands-on practice in the wet lab. The team also visited Aravind-Dindigul, the Gandhigram Vision Centre, and an outreach camp at Vadamadurai to gain insights into Aravind’s comprehensive eye care delivery model. The programme provided a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and learning.