According to a recent study “Democratizing Access to World-Class Eye Care” India with an estimated 25,000 ophthalmologists has just around 15 per million population. However, the urban-rural disparity exists here too with urban areas having one ophthalmologist for 10,000 people with rural areas far behind at one for every 250,000 people. This imbalance highlights a significant gap in accessible and timely eye care services, especially in underserved and remote regions.

Addressing this disparity requires more than infrastructure, it demands skilled, motivated professionals on the ground. The Sightsavers India Fellowship Program is a vital step in this direction. Designed to nurture and equip young ophthalmologists, the programme offers hands-on clinical training, community engagement experience, a chance to participate in eye health surveys, and exposure to high-volume settings in rural and peri-urban areas.

By investing in the next generation of eye health professionals, the Fellowship is not only strengthening the human resource base but also ensuring that quality eye care reaches those who need it the most. It is a strategic response to a systemic issue and a step towards a future where preventable blindness is no longer a public health burden.

The 24-month structured program combines intensive clinical training at leading eye health institutions with experienced professionals with practical experience. The program includes district postings, one-on-one clinical-surgical mentorship, participation in community-based surveys and self-transformation mentoring. Fellows will also receive an attractive stipend and residential facility.

The fellows experience structured skill enhancement and mentoring process covering clinical and surgical ophthalmology and managerial and holistic life skills. Every stage of the fellowship program optimises learning that helps the fellows transform into all-rounded seasoned professional

The residential Fellowship is designed for postgraduates or diploma holders in ophthalmology (MS/DO/DNB) from any recognised institute / university in India, having sound knowledge on clinical ophthalmology (current year pass outs are eligible to apply). Desired attributes include high learning orientation, adaptability, professional ethics and emotional resilience.

The last date for submitting applications is 15^th August 2025 and the Fellowship will begin in September 2025.

Speaking on the announcement, RN Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India, said “India has made remarkable strides in expanding access to eye care and strengthening human resources remains key to sustaining this progress. Through Sightsavers India’s Fellowship Program, we are proud to nurture young ophthalmologists who are passionate about delivering quality care where it’s needed most. We look forward to welcoming the next cohort of fellows—future leaders who will help shape a more inclusive society and contribute to reducing blindness prevalence.”

Interested applicants can visit the Sightsavers India Fellowship Program website for more information and apply online.

The post Sightsavers India Fellowship Programme Invites Applications for 2025 appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.

Under this collaboration, Sightsavers India will support the development of modern infrastructure and clinical skill-building to nurture the next generation of eye health professionals. The initiative forms part of Sightsavers India’s flagship Fellowship Programme for Ophthalmologists, which focuses on building a cadre of well-trained professionals committed to serving in remote and underserved areas.

Mr. RN Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India, said, “At Sightsavers India, we believe that strengthening health systems begins with nurturing skilled professionals, and our collaboration with GSVM Medical College is a significant step in that direction. Together, we are investing in the future of ophthalmology — empowering young doctors with stronger clinical knowledge and practical skills, structured mentorship, and a service-driven mindset. By incubating future ophthalmologists and optometrists with hands-on training and exposure, we are building a sustainable model of quality eye care that will have long-term impact.”

Dr. Sanjaya Kala, Principal, GSVM Medical College, thanked Sightsavers India for their invaluable support and stated that “this initiative will enable us to extend our reach to more people and substantially contribute to reducing the prevalence of blindness in the area.”

Dr. Shalini Mohan, HoD and Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, said, “My interactions with Mr. R.N. Mohanty in Delhi highlighted the immense potential of this initiative and convinced me to move forward with it. It aligns perfectly with our department’s vision to upgrade hands-on experience for both junior and senior residents, thereby boosting their confidence to serve effectively.”

Dr. Parwez Khan, Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, said, “We are very enthusiastic about this initiative and confident that this will benefit our medical students and the patients. By strengthening clinical exposure and enhancing patient care, this collaboration marks a significant step forward.”

The Impact of the Partnership

By augmenting surgical capacities and outreach efforts, the department will contribute significantly to reducing the prevalence of blindness, not only in Kanpur Nagar but also in surrounding areas. The far-reaching benefits include enhanced community well-being, improved quality of life for individuals, and increased overall productivity.

The post Sightsavers India and GSVM Medical College, Kanpur Partner to Strengthen Ophthalmology Training Through Infrastructure Development and Skill Building appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.

The objectives of the campaign are to raise awareness about glaucoma, its risk factors, and the importance of regular eye check-ups. It aims to promote early detection and timely treatment of glaucoma to prevent blindness. This national campaign seeks to unite experts, policymakers, and key stakeholders to discuss the current state of glaucoma awareness and treatment in India, while regional consultations are designed to elevate local awareness and facilitate meaningful discussions on the issue.

Glaucoma screening kiosks were set up during the consultations, allowing participants to get screened and understand their eye health better. The consultations were promoted extensively in the respective cities to ensure significant participation.

Shri. Rajendra Shukla, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Govt of Madhya Pradesh, said, “The well-being of the people of Madhya Pradesh is our top priority, and good vision plays a crucial role in ensuring a healthy and productive life. The government is fully committed to supporting initiatives like this, which focus on early detection and prevention of glaucoma.”

Shri. Narendra Shivaji Patel, Hon’ble Minister of State – Public Health and Medical Education, Madhya Pradesh, stated, “Public health and education are critical pillars for the progress of our state, and ensuring access to essential healthcare services, like eye care, is a key priority. Glaucoma, if left undiagnosed, can have devastating consequences, but with the right awareness and timely interventions, we can prevent this.

The consultation commenced with a warm welcome by Minakshi Patel, Project Officer, Madhya Pradesh, Sightsavers India.

This was followed by opening remarks from Mr Prasannakumar PN, Senior Director, Programmes, Sightsavers India who highlighted the significance of early intervention in preventing glaucoma-related blindness. ” At Sightsavers India, our mission is to bridge this gap by bringing quality eye care to the forefront, especially for those who lack access to essential services. This consultation is an important opportunity to bring together experts, policymakers, and healthcare providers to share insights, strengthen our strategies, and prevent avoidable blindness.”

Suresh Pattathil, Managing Director of AbbVie India, via email stated, “At AbbVie, we are firmly committed to advancing healthcare innovation through meaningful collaboration. Our partnership with Sightsavers India underscores our dedication to addressing critical eye health challenges, such as glaucoma, which frequently goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage. Through this collaboration, we seek to enhance accessibility to eye care, promote early diagnosis, and ensure that individuals across India, particularly those in underrepresented communities, receive the care they need.”

Dr. B.K. Jain, Director and Trustee, Shri. Sadhguru Seva Sangh Trust and Guest of Honour, remarked, “In the realm of healthcare, prevention and early intervention are paramount. This collaboration between Sightsavers India and AbbVie India is a commendable initiative that not only brings much-needed attention to glaucoma but also provides tangible solutions through screenings and education.”

Dr Suneeta Dubey, Medical Director and Director of Glaucoma Services, Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi, and Keynote Speaker, said, “Glaucoma is a complex and often overlooked condition, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, we can prevent blindness and significantly improve patient’s quality of life. This consultation is an important platform for driving awareness.”

A panel discussion followed which brought together specialists who discussed various approaches to managing glaucoma, followed by an interactive Q&A session where attendees had the opportunity to seek advice directly from the experts.

To conclude the event, Sudipta Mohanty, Area Director, North India, Sightsavers India, shared the way forward, “The discussions and insights shared today will play a pivotal role in shaping our strategies for better awareness, early detection, and treatment of this silent disease. Moving forward, our focus will be on implementing actionable solutions and strengthening our collaborations with healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities.”

Tasha Mahanta, State Programme Lead, Madhya Pradesh, Sightsavers India, delivered closing remarks, reiterating the need for ongoing public education and awareness around glaucoma prevention.

The post Bhopal Hosts Third State-Level Consultation on Glaucoma Prevention appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.

The six graduating fellows – Dr. Mohd Saif, Dr. Reshma Sonowal, Dr. Faizah Shahreer Ahmad, Dr. Aniza Nagpal, Dr. Saamragye Srivastava, and Dr. M. Srinivasan Gounder -received their specialized training at two of India’s premier eye care institutions, Dr Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, Delhi and ICare Noida. Over the course of the programme, they extended critical ophthalmic services to underserved rural communities, significantly enhancing the availability of eye care in these regions.

Achievements of the Fellows

• The graduating cohort addressed the need for quality eye care services in rural pockets across Rajnandgaon (Chhattisgarh), Jhabua and Satna (Madhya Pradesh), Kalahandi (Odisha), Kasganj (Uttar Pradesh), and Hazaribagh (Jharkhand).
• They extended OPD services and undertook comprehensive clinical assessments of over a lakh rural beneficiaries and performed cataract surgeries for more than 14,000 individuals. Additionally, they participated in outreach camps in remote areas, offering their expertise to those who needed it the most.
• They actively participated in the RAAB (Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness) survey in Samastipur, Bihar which aimed to estimate the prevalence and causes of avoidable blindness and visual impairment in people above 50 years of age and yielded a helpful amount of data.

The India Fellowship Programme by Sightsavers India is a testament to the organization’s commitment to eliminating avoidable blindness and promoting equal opportunities for visually impaired individuals. By training and deploying skilled ophthalmologists in rural areas, the Fellows are making a tangible impact on the eye health sector.

“The success of our fellows is a proud moment for Sightsavers India. Their hard work and perseverance have brought hope and vision to thousands in rural communities,” said RN Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India. “We are especially proud of the fact that they ventured into rural India and performed extensive fieldwork. They have set a high standard for future fellows and have made a lasting impact on the communities they served. We look forward to welcoming more dedicated fellows in the coming years and continuing our mission to eliminate avoidable blindness.”

The post Sightsavers India Fellows Graduate Ophthalmology Programme   appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.

Glaucoma, one of the leading causes of blindness globally, requires timely detection and treatment to prevent vision loss. This initiative aimed to spread awareness, share knowledge among professionals, and encourage regular eye screenings to promote early detection.

Shri Brajesh Pathak, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, graced the event as a Chief Guest, highlighting the government’s dedication to enhancing eye health services in the region. He said, “The government of Uttar Pradesh is committed to strengthening eye care services across the state to ensure that every individual has access to timely and quality eye health interventions. Initiatives like this state-level consultation are crucial in raising awareness and bringing together the expertise needed to combat preventable blindness. We applaud the collaboration between Sightsavers India and AbbVie India for their dedication to this cause, and we will continue to support efforts that protect the vision and health of our citizens.”

The consultation commenced with a warm welcome by Urja Arora, Project Officer, Uttar Pradesh, followed by opening remarks from Mr R.N. Mohanty, Chief Executive Officer, Sightsavers India, and Mr Suresh Pattathil, Managing Director who highlighted the significance of early intervention in preventing glaucoma-related blindness.

Mr Suresh Pattathil, Managing Director of AbbVie India stated that “collaborating with Sightsavers India on this important initiative underlines our mission to set our sights on a future where vision lasts a lifetime.  Glaucoma is a condition that requires both awareness and action and through these consultations, we aim to bridge the gap in understanding and access to care. By equipping individuals and communities with the latest knowledge and resources, we are taking significant strides towards a future where sight loss due to glaucoma can be effectively managed and prevented. We are honoured to be part of this campaign, which is crucial in our collective effort to safeguard the vision of countless individuals.”

Mr R.N. Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India said “Glaucoma remains a silent threat to vision, often going unnoticed until it’s too late. Early detection and timely treatment are essential against this condition. At Sightsavers India, we are committed to promoting a culture of proactive eye care, where regular screenings and early intervention are prioritized. Our partnership with AbbVie India in organizing these state-level consultations is a crucial step in addressing the challenges posed by glaucoma. By bringing together experts and the community, we aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect their vision and prevent avoidable blindness.”

Dr Suneeta Dubey, Medical Director and Director of Glaucoma Services, Dr Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi, the Keynote Speaker, is a renowned ophthalmologist and glaucoma specialist with over three decades of experience, has been a pioneer in introducing minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries to India. She highlighted the advancements in glaucoma treatment, including minimally invasive surgeries, offer hope for preserving vision, but awareness and timely action are the keys.

The Guest Speaker Dr. Madhu Bhadauria, Director of the Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, spoke about the concerted effort to educate both the public and healthcare providers about the importance of regular eye examinations. She emphasized the importance of bringing together experts and stakeholders to drive the necessary change in how we approach glaucoma care in our communities.

A panel discussion followed which brought together specialists who discussed various approaches to managing glaucoma, followed by an interactive Q&A session where attendees had the opportunity to seek advice directly from the experts.

To conclude the event, Sudipta Mohanty, Area Director, North India, Sightsavers India, and Pramod Tripathi, State Programme Lead, Uttar Pradesh, Sightsavers India, delivered closing remarks, reiterating the need for ongoing public education and awareness around glaucoma prevention.

The consultation also featured a free glaucoma screening session for attendees aged 40 and above, led by Dr Suneeta Dubey and her team, ensuring participants could immediately benefit from the information shared during the event.

The post Sightsavers India and AbbVie India Hosted a State-Level Consultation on ‘Prevention of Visual Impairment Caused by Glaucoma’ in Lucknow appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.

The Mobile Eye Health Van’s inauguration took place at Bangalore Diabetes and Eye Hospital. It was attended by the esteemed Dr. Rajani, Deputy Director-Ophthalmology, Government of Karnataka, and Dr. Shamsundar, Joint Director NPCBVI, Government of Karnataka, along with distinguished guests, including Dr. Girish, District Leprosy Officer—BBMP.

The Mobile Eye Health Van addresses the significant barriers faced by individuals living in low-income areas in accessing quality eye care, including financial constraints and a lack of healthcare facilities nearby. Enabled with state-of-the-art technology like a Fundus Camera for diagnosing Diabetic Retinopathy and Glaucoma, slit lamp for diagnosing retinal diseases and teleconsultation facilities. The van will offer comprehensive eye exams, early detection of vision problems, and immediate treatment for common eye conditions. Patients will be referred to Shraddha Eye Clinic Trust for further treatment in case of major eye care diagnoses. Depending on the patient’s socioeconomic status, the treatment will be free or subsidized.

This initiative will cover key areas within Bangalore, including Bangalore South, including HSR Layout, Madiwala, Koramangala, Kumaraswamy Layout, and Jayanagara; Bangalore North, including Abbigere, Amruthalli, Dasarahalli, Yelahanka, and Hebbal; Bangalore East, including Avalahalli, Dommasandra, and Bidarahalli; and Bangalore West, including Basaveshwaranagara, Chandra Layout, Kengeri, Mahalakshmi Layout, and Mathikere. By providing accessible and affordable eye care, the Mobile Eye Health Van will help reduce the prevalence of avoidable blindness and improve the overall quality of life for Bangalore’s urban slum dwellers.

Amar Vyas, Country Head of Alcon India, expressed, “Through our longstanding partnership with Sightsavers India, we are proud to unveil the Mobile Eye Health Van today. Its mission is to bring high-quality eye care to all corners of Bangalore, especially to remote areas, bringing our mission of helping people see brilliantly.”

RN Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India, stated, “Our Urban Eye Health Programme, dedicated to enhancing the eye health of underserved urban populations, is proud to launch a Mobile Eye Health Van in Bangalore. This initiative aligns with our mission to eliminate avoidable blindness and ensure equitable access to quality eye care for all.”

Dr. Sri Ganesh of Shraddha Eye Care Trust added, “We at Shraddha Eye Care Trust are honoured to partner with Sightsavers India and Alcon in launching the Mobile Eye Health Van in Bangalore. This mobile van will enable us to extend our reach even further, bringing essential eye care services directly to those who need them most.”

The launch of the Mobile Eye Health Van is a significant step in improving eye health access in Bangalore, showcasing the commitment of both Alcon India and Sightsavers India to prevent avoidable blindness and promote eye health across India.

The post Mobile Eye Health Van Launched to Ensure Quality Eye Care in Remote Areas of Bangalore appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.