Union Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, is set to inaugurate India’s inaugural International Ophthalmology Research Conference, co-hosted by the Department of Ophthalmology at Army Hospital (Research & Referral) in Delhi. The two-day conference will gather around 200 renowned ophthalmologists from across the nation, including military eye specialists, with the aim of enhancing civil-military cooperation in ophthalmology.
Scheduled for May 9 and 10, the event is a joint effort by the Department and the All-India Ophthalmological Society, taking place at Manekshaw Centre in Delhi Cantonment. Named All-India Ophthalmological Society – Armed Forces Ophthalmology Update (AIOS-AFOU 2026), the conference will be graced by the three Service Chiefs and the Defence Secretary, highlighting its national significance and tri-service nature.
The conference will delve into various ophthalmology subspecialties, featuring the latest advancements in the field. Over 100 distinguished faculty members from prestigious institutes like AIIMS, New Delhi; PGI, Chandigarh; LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad; Sankara Netralaya, Chennai; and Aravind Eye Care System are expected to participate.
Internationally recognized ophthalmologists, Professor Harminder Singh Dua from the University of Nottingham, UK, and Dr. Colin Siang Hui Tan from Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, will also be part of the event. Professor Dua is known for his groundbreaking research in chemical ocular injuries and the discovery of Dua’s Layer, a significant contribution to corneal anatomy. Dr. Colin Siang Hui Tan specializes in retinal imaging, diabetic retinopathy, and AI-driven ophthalmic diagnostics.
The conference aims to provide a platform for young ophthalmologists nationwide to demonstrate their skills and gain insights from industry experts.
