Union Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, inaugurated India’s first International Ophthalmology Research Conference hosted by the Department of Ophthalmology at Army Hospital (Research & Referral) in Delhi. The two-day event has gathered around 200 renowned ophthalmologists from across the country and military eye specialists to enhance civil-military cooperation in ophthalmology.
The conference, known as All-India Ophthalmological Society – Armed Forces Ophthalmology Update (AIOS-AFOU 2026), is taking place at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantonment. It is a collaborative effort between the Department and the All-India Ophthalmological Society. The event is graced by the presence of the three Service Chiefs and the Defence Secretary, highlighting its national significance and tri-service nature.
This conference is a significant milestone for the Armed Forces Medical Services, uniting military ophthalmologists and civilian experts on a shared academic platform dedicated to cutting-edge ophthalmic research, innovation, and clinical excellence. The event will cover various aspects of ophthalmology, showcasing the latest advancements in all major subspecialties.
Addressing the audience, Minister Seth commended the efforts of the Armed Forces Medical Services, the Army Medical Corps, and the All-India Ophthalmological Society for their dedicated service to the nation. He emphasized the importance of healthcare professionals in nation-building and humanitarian service, reflecting on the spirit of ‘Nar Seva Narayan Seva’.
The conference features over 100 distinguished faculty members from prestigious institutions like AIIMS, New Delhi; PGI, Chandigarh; LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad; Sankara Netralaya, Chennai; and Aravind Eye Care System. Additionally, internationally acclaimed ophthalmologists, Professor Harminder Singh Dua from the University of Nottingham, UK, and Dr. Colin Siang Hui Tan from Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, are also participating in the event.
