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Delhi Hosts Final Chapter of Glaucoma Consultations

The ambitious glaucoma consultation effort coordinated by Sightsavers India and AbbVie India concluded with a series of compelling sessions at the India International Centre in New Delhi. Bringing together a diverse panel of academics, politicians, and healthcare executives, the consultation moved beyond state-level interactions to a nationwide debate focused on addressing India's growing glaucoma burden and reducing avoidable blindness. 

The consultation series, which lasted 15 months, brought together healthcare professionals, media representatives, and industry executives from places such as Bhubaneswar, Bhopal, Lucknow, Bengaluru, and Patna. Each session addressed specific difficulties related to glaucoma awareness, early detection, and treatment accessibility. With the national consultation in Delhi, the project has cleared the way for greater collaboration, revised plans, and increased efforts to minimise preventable blindness. 

"Glaucoma is a silent but irreversible illness; thus, early detection and quick treatments are critical in preventing visual loss. The Government of India remains dedicated to improving eye care services and supporting such efforts," said Dr Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti. He emphasised that tackling glaucoma requires a collaborative effort from governments, healthcare providers, and civil society to guarantee a timely diagnosis and treatment. 

Dr. Radhika Tandon, Chief of the Dr. R.P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences at AIIMS, emphasised the need for more knowledge, saying, "Awareness should not be limited to those already affected—everyone should know about it, including those in good eye health." Engaging students from other fields can provide new, inventive ideas for expanding glaucoma care. 

Mr R.N. Mohanty, CEO of Sightsavers India, reflected on the experience, saying, "Fifteen months ago, Sightsavers India and AbbVie India embarked on a journey to bring glaucoma awareness to the forefront and strengthen early detection efforts across India." Through state-level meetings, we have ignited vital conversations, engaged stakeholders, and taken practical initiatives by providing free glaucoma examinations in operating districts across India." 

Suresh Pattathil, the managing director and general manager of AbbVie India, reiterated this attitude, saying, "From urban centres to remote communities, our collaboration has brought glaucoma awareness, screenings, and expert-led discussions to the forefront." Our collaboration is dedicated to improving eye health in India and leaving a lasting impact." 

The Delhi consultation featured a dynamic panel discussion hosted by Dr Sandeep Buttan of Sightsavers India, in which experts such as Padma Shri Dr Virander S. Chauhan, Dr Manav Deep Singh, Dr Umang Mathur, Dr Mohammed Asheel, and Mr Arun Pandey addressed critical difficulties in glaucoma therapy. The relevance of technology in early detection, the necessity for integrated eye care policies, and the importance of using both digital and traditional media to raise awareness and support proactive eye health practices were all emphasised during the discussions. 

Mr. Prasannakumar P.N., Senior Director, Program Operations, Sightsavers India, summarised important points, emphasising the necessity of working together to shape a more structured, action-oriented approach to glaucoma care. Reflecting on the progress made in identifying gaps in awareness and treatment, he underlined Sightsavers India's commitment to continuing early detection efforts and making glaucoma a top public health priority. 

The Delhi consultation is more than just the end of a series; it represents the start of a national effort to prevent avoidable blindness through strong policy initiatives, technology breakthroughs, and mass public participation. India's campaign against glaucoma requires sustained momentum, and the insights collected from these consultations have the potential to catalyse a paradigm shift in eye care services across the country. As Sightsavers India and AbbVie India renew their commitment, the task ahead is to translate discourse into continuous action that promotes early detection, enhanced awareness, and prompt care for everybody.


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