Aravind-Kovilpatti, 25^th September 2026

The 7th Hospital Day of Aravind-Kovilpatti was celebrated with great enthusiasm, commemorating the hospital’s journey, acknowledging the contributions of its team members, and providing an opportunity for everyone to come together to celebrate its milestones and achievements.

The programme commenced with a prayer song, followed by the Welcome Address by Dr. Suganya G.J., who also presented the annual report. Dr. R. Ramakrishnan, Advisor, Aravind-Tirunelveli, delivered a special address. Dr. Subhashini, Diabetologist and Physician, and Dr. R. Meenakshi, CMO, Aravind-Tirunelveli, were felicitated as part of the programme.

Sr. Anthony Jeba Mary presented a Bharatanatyam performance, and Sr. Sakthi and Sr. Malathi presented a Karakattam performance, followed by a melodious song by Sr. Kavina. The formal programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Rajaram Mohanroy, Manager.

Aravind-Madurai, 20^th September 2026

Aravind Eye Care System (AECS) commemorated its Fifty-Year Journey by organising a grant event at The Residency Signature Hotel, Perungudi, Madurai. The Golden Jubilee celebration, titled “A Tribute to the Journey – Celebrating Fifty Years of Service in Sight,” featured a series of programmes, with a morning session for the public and guests and an afternoon session exclusively for Aravind employees.

The morning programme began with a welcome address by Dr. R.D. Ravindran, Chairman, AECS, followed by video presentations and the felicitation of distinguished guests. Dr. B.K. Krishnaraj Vanavarayar, Chairman, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, and educationist, participated as the Chief Guest. Dr. G. Nageswara Rao, Chairman, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Prof. R. Raja Govindasamy, past Rotary District Governor for RI District 3000 (2024–25), Dr. V. Paneer Selvam, Founder and Director, Arasan Eye Hospital, Erode, and R. Ramraj, Co-founder, Sify & Advisor, Aurolab, participated as Guests of Honour. Dr. G. Natchiar, Director Emeritus, AECS, delivered a special address. A special play, “Aravind’s Journey,” directed by Prof. Dr. R. Prabakar, Former Head & Associate Professor Dept. of Tamil, The American College, Madurai, was staged as part of the celebrations, with Aravind employees performing in the play. The first session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. R. Kim, President, GOVEL, Trust.

The afternoon programme, exclusively for Aravind employees began with a welcome address by Lakshmi HR, Aravind-Tirunveli. The session featured addresses by the founders and the presentation of Service Awards to Aravind employees. A dance drama titled “Towards Light,” conceptualised and directed by Sandhini Arunagiri of Madurai Naatya Kalaya, was also staged. A special debate involving Aravind employees was held, with Prof. Dr. G. Gnanasambandan serving as the moderator. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by R. Deepa, HR Manager, Central Office.

Coimbatore, 20^th August 2026

Aravind-Coimbatore organised a one-day knowledge-enrichment visit to the Kasthuri Sreenivasan Art Gallery and Textile Museum, Coimbatore, for the newly joined AOP trainees.

The visit provided the trainees with an opportunity to explore the rich heritage of textile manufacturing, traditional arts, and cultural exhibits preserved at the museum. It also offered a platform for the trainees to interact with their peers, strengthen team bonding, and create memorable experiences making it an enjoyable and enriching experience.

Aravind-Coimbatore, 15-16 September 2026

Aravind-Coimbatore conducted a special gathering for the parents of AOP employees who have completed their third and fourth years of service. The initiative provided parents with an opportunity to understand and appreciate their daughters’ growth, achievements, responsibilities, and contributions to patient care.

The meeting began with Umapriya, HR Manager, welcoming the gathering and Dr. Kalpana Narendran, Chief, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus Services, Aravind-Coimbatore, delivered a talk emphasising the importance of continuous learning, and taking ownership of work. Dr. Sasikala, Medical Consultant, Paediatric Ophthalmology Services, Aravind-Coimbatore, , highlighted the importance of each AOP’s role in supporting the vision and mission of Aravind. Theanamudhan, Academic Coordinator, explained the degree courses, modes of study, and contact classes. Parents expressed happiness and pride in witnessing the positive changes in their daughters’ confidence, discipline, skills, sense of responsibility, and overall personality.

Aravind-Pondicherry, 13^th September 2026

Aravind-Pondicherry organised “Neuro Synapse 2026,” a symposium featuring high-yield academic sessions and engaging panel discussions on clinical localisation, cranial nerve palsies, IIH management strategies, and acute neuro-ophthalmic emergencies. The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Manavi D. Sindal. A major highlight of the day was the energetic Kahoot Quiz, in which Dr. Vaishnavi, Glaucoma Fellow, Aravind-Pondicherry, secured first place. Dr. Jai Sriram, a Private Practitioner, secured second place, while Dr. Premalatha, Government General Hospital, Karaikal, secured third place.

Aravind-Chennai, 11^th September 2026

As part of the 50th year celebrations, Aravind-Chennai hosted “Coffee with GN Madam,” an informal and heartwarming interaction with Dr. G. Natchiar. Medical consultants had the opportunity to listen to her memories of the early days of Aravind, her experiences of working alongside Dr. G. Venkataswamy, and her reflections on the values and culture that have shaped the organisation.

The conversation brought together stories, laughter, inspiration, and valuable lessons for the next generation of Aravind doctors. Questions from the younger members made the interaction engaging and personal. The event was a wonderful reminder that behind Aravind’s growth are people, relationships, and decades of committed service.

Aravind-Salem, 11^th September 2026

The Humour Club was officially launched at Aravind-Salem, bringing together doctors, AOP sisters, and staff members for an enjoyable evening filled with laughter and entertainment. The club aims to promote team spirit, positive interaction, friendship, and a joyful workplace environment.

The club was initiated under the guidance of Dr. B. Manohar Babu, CMO, Aravind-Salem. During the launch, he highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for staff to relax, interact, and share moments of happiness beyond their routine responsibilities. Participants shared jokes and entertaining experiences, creating a lively and cheerful atmosphere throughout the evening.

Aravind-Salem, 7-11 September 2026

Aravind-Salem organised the “Arivuthirukoil Manavalakalai Yoga for Youth Empowerment” course for newly joined AOP sisters. The programme was designed to support the personal growth and emotional well-being of the trainees, helping them cultivate calmness, self-awareness, and inner strength as they begin their professional journey.

The course provided a focused and interactive learning environment. The sessions introduced participants to the core principles of Manavalakalai Yoga, including physical exercises, meditation, and techniques for anger management and mind control. At the end of the training, certificates were awarded to all participants.

Aravind-Thanjavur, 9^th September 2026

Aravind-Thanjavur conducted a Fire and Rescue Safety Training Programme in collaboration with the District Fire and Rescue Services, Thanjavur. The training was organised to strengthen fire safety awareness among staff and ensure preparedness to respond effectively during fire-related emergencies.

The session included practical demonstrations and guidance on fire prevention, emergency response procedures, safe evacuation, and the appropriate use of fire extinguishers. The programme also emphasised the importance of maintaining a safe hospital environment and adhering to NABH safety and compliance requirements.

Aravind-Coimbatore, 7^th September 2026

A new Camp and IT office were inaugurated at Aravind-Coimbatore, marking an important step towards strengthening eye care outreach. The newly established office will serve as an operational hub for streamlining comprehensive eye camps and expanding access to eye care services in the community.

The occasion began with a traditional inaugural pooja attended by Dr. Narendran, CMO, Aravind-Coimbatore, and Dr. Rodney J. Morris, Camp Medical Officer. Following the ceremony, Dr. Kalpana, Senior Medical Officer, visited and inspected the newly established facility. During her visit, she shared valuable insights and guidance to strengthen future outreach programmes and enhance community eye care initiatives.

Aravind-Thanjavur, 5-6 September 2026

Aravind-Thanjavur commenced its outreach services in Thanjavur District, bringing accessible and quality eye care closer to communities in need. As part of the initiative, two outreach eye camps were conducted at Anaikadu and Kumbakonam on 5 and 6 September 2026, respectively. The camps provided comprehensive eye screening and identified patients requiring further treatment. A total of 67 patients were brought from the outreach camps for cataract intervention, and the cataract surgeries were successfully completed at Aravind-Thanjavur. This community-based eye care ensures quality eye care and timely surgical services reach people closer to their homes.

Aravind-Chennai, 1-5 September 2026

The 17th batch of Īkshana – Comprehensive Capsule for Postgraduates – Phase 1 was conducted at ARCORE, Aravind-Chennai. This five-day comprehensive training programme was designed for first- and second-year postgraduate ophthalmology students, with a focus on strengthening their clinical foundation and developing essential diagnostic and surgical skills through a combination of interactive academic sessions and hands-on training.

During one of the sessions, participants’ SICS surgical videos were reviewed by Dr. Haripriya, Chief, Cataract Services, Aravind-Chennai. Dr. S. Kavitha, Chief, Glaucoma Services, Aravind-Pondicherry, shared her experiences and insights. The sessions were conducted under the guidance of Dr. Nikita Manikandhan, Medical Officer, and Dr. Mukkamala Narasimha Rao, IOL Fellow. A total of 38 postgraduates participated, representing a diverse group of institutions from across India.

Aravind-Madurai, 2^nd September 2026

Organised by Aravind-Madurai, DME 360, a scientific session, aimed at promoting a holistic, evidence-based, interdisciplinary approach to the management of Diabetic Macular Edema (DME).

The session featured scientific contributions from experts across multiple specialties. Dr. Anand K. Annamalai, Endocrinologist, reviewed critical evidence on the mechanisms underlying Early Worsening of Diabetic Retinopathy (EWDR) during rapid glycemic control. Dr. P. Vathsalyan, Nephrologist, provided insights into the systemic pharmacokinetics of intravitreal injections. Dr. Ragavan K., Cardiologist, discussed the cardiovascular risks associated with anti-VEGF therapies. Dr. V. Muthu Krishnan, Medical Consultant, Retina-Vitreous Services, Aravind-Madurai, highlighted patient profiles in which dexamethasone implants may be an optimal treatment option.

The session featured discussions led by the Chairperson, Dr. R. Kim, with expert panellists Dr. Naresh Babu, Chief, Retina-Vitreous Services, Aravind-Madurai, Dr. T.P. Vignesh, Medical Consultant, Retina-Vitreous Services, Aravind-Madurai, and Dr. Renu P. Rajan, Medical Consultant, Retina-Vitreous Services, Aravind-Madurai. The discussions effectively bridged systemic evidence with clinical realities.

Aravind-Salem, 2^nd September 2026

A new crèche facility was inaugurated at Aravind-Salem by Dr. B. Manohar Babu in the presence of doctors and staff members. The inauguration was made more memorable by the participation of the staff members’ children, who filled the occasion with joy and warmth. The joyful atmosphere marked the beginning of a nurturing space where little ones can learn, play, grow, and feel at home.

Aravind-Salem, 30^th August 2026

An Ideathon event was conducted at Aravind-Salem, headed by Dr. B. Manohar Babu, and supported by Dr. R. Janani, Medical Consultant, Paediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus Services, Aravind-Salem, with the objective of encouraging innovative thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and practical solutions to challenges faced within the hospital. A total of 23 problem statements identified and posted by the team were presented at the forum. Participants engaged in group discussions to understand the problems, explore their root causes, and propose practical and feasible solutions.

The event witnessed active participation from doctors, administrative staff, and senior AOPs, making it an excellent platform for cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing.

25th August – 8th September 2026

As part of the National Eye Donation Fortnight, observed annually from 25th August to 8th September to raise public awareness and encourage people to pledge their eyes for corneal donation, a series of awareness programmes and activities were organised across all Aravind centres.

Aravind-Madurai

A series of Eye Donation Awareness and Hospital Cornea Retrieval Programme (HCRP) activities were organised across Madurai, Kodaikanal, Theni, Sivagangai, Pudukkottai, Kumbakonam and Dindigul, in association with IMA, Lions Clubs and government hospitals and institutions. The programmes included HCRP training for doctors, awareness sessions, oath-taking and signature campaigns, student programmes, drawing competitions, human chains, rallies and seminars. Special programmes included the felicitation of 27 eye-donation donor families at Sivagangai. The sessions focused on strengthening hospital cornea retrieval, donor identification, eye banking and encouraging healthcare professionals, students and the public to promote eye donation and help restore sight to people affected by corneal blindness.

Aravind-Tirunelveli

Aravind-Tirunelveli observed Eye Donation Fortnight 2026 with a series of awareness and community outreach activities, including an exhibition, human chains, rallies, drawing competitions, Pattimandrams, a beneficiary meeting, Teachers’ Day celebration and public awareness van display. The programmes engaged doctors, AOPs, students, teachers and the general public across Tirunelveli, Alangulam, Kovilpatti, Palayamkottai and Sankar Nagar. Awareness sessions highlighted eye donation, corneal transplantation and the importance of donor identification. The fortnight concluded with a valedictory function at Aravind-Tirunelveli, where around 20 donor families and key contributors to eye donation activities were honoured for their invaluable support in giving the gift of sight.

Aravind-Salem

Aravind-Salem observed Eye Donation Fortnight 2026 through awareness activities for patients, attendants, staff, students and the public, including awareness videos, donor recognition, pledge boxes and an exhibition featuring posters, games and interactive activities. More than 591 people pledged their eyes during the fortnight, while students from schools and colleges participated in awareness programmes. Awareness talks were also conducted at Namakkal Medical College and IMA Hall, Salem. The fortnight concluded with a Thanksgiving and Felicitation Programme on 8th September, where the Enucleation Team, drivers and AOP sisters were honoured for their dedicated support.

Aravind-Coimbatore

As part of the National Eye Donation Fortnight, the Aravind IOB Eye Bank, Coimbatore, conducted several awareness activities. Sessions were held for around 150 nursing staff at Royal Care Hospital and 130 students of PPG College of Nursing, focusing on the importance and process of eye donation and the role of healthcare professionals. Awareness programmes were also conducted for students of Kovai Vidya Mandhir School and RVS College of Nursing, while Dr. P. Mangala delivered an awareness talk through All India Radio, Coimbatore. The Aravind-Coimbatore team, including doctors and AOPs, participated in the “Walk for Sight – Eye Donation Walkathon” organised by the Coimbatore Society of Ophthalmic Surgeons. An Eye Donation Awareness Exhibition was also organised at Aravind-Coimbatore for patients and attendants, with several patients coming forward to pledge their eyes for donation.

Aravind – Chennai

As part of the 41st National Eye Donation Awareness Fortnight, Aravind-Chennai conducted various awareness activities in coordination with Government Medical College Hospitals to promote eye donation and corneal utilisation. In collaboration with Vellore Government Medical College Hospital, an awareness rally was conducted by medical students, followed by a felicitation programme for tissue donor families. At Tiruvallur Government Medical College Hospital, an awareness rally was conducted, along with a guest lecture by Dr. Seema on eye donation. Additionally, an Eye Donation Exhibition and Rangoli activity was conducted at the base hospital to educate patients, attendants, and the public.

Aravind – Thanjavur

As part of Eye Donation Fortnight 2026, Aravind-Thanjavur conducted awareness activities to highlight the importance of eye donation and encourage community participation. An awareness session was held at Bharath College of Science and Management, Thanjavur, with more than 100 students and staff participating. Dr. Divya M., Chief, Cataract, Cornea & Refractive Surgeries, delivered an informative talk, addressing common myths and emphasising the importance of eye donation. An Eye Donation Awareness Corner with informative videos and a Ring Toss Game was also organised at the hospital for patients, attenders and visitors. A dedicated registration counter enabled people to pledge their eyes, with more than 200 volunteers registering their willingness to donate their eyes after death and receiving registration certificates

Aravind-Pondicherry

In commemoration of National Eye Donation Fortnight, Aravind-Pondicherry conducted a series of events to raise awareness about eye donation and honour those involved in the eye donation initiatives. The programmes included an awareness rally by AOPs and schoolchildren, eye donation awareness sessions, and an awareness exhibition. These initiatives encouraged the public and visitors to learn more about eye donation and contribute to this noble cause.

Aravind-Coimbatore, 21-23 August 2026

Aravind-Coimbatore hosted the 10th Annual Conference of the Indian Retinopathy of Prematurity (I-ROP) Society. The event included a pre-conference awareness workshop for government paediatricians and ophthalmologists, along with three hands-on workshops at ARCORE on indirect laser using model eyes, telescreening using model eyes, and intravitreal injections using goat eyes. The main conference was attended by 129 delegates, while 50 participants attended the various workshops. During one of the paper presentation sessions, Dr. Ninan Jacob, Paediatric Retina Surgical Fellow, secured the Second Prize (First Runner-up) in the Free Paper Contest for his presentation, “Plus is Not the Sole Indicator.”