CBM India hosted national conference to address eye health in India

– The Right to Sight is a global initiative founded in 1999 to eliminate preventable blindness. As a founding member of VISION 2020, CBM India has played a crucial role in bringing expertise and stakeholders together to address the difficulties associated with visual impairment, greatly contributing to the greater mission of VISION 2020. CBM India’s ongoing commitment to reducing avoidable blindness and promoting inclusive eye care was also evident at the 17th conference, ultimately impacting the lives of countless individuals worldwide. 

The two-day conference provided a forum for experts and organizations to exchange ideas on how to improve eye care services in India. It included thought-provoking panel discussions, poster presentations, and crucial experience-sharing sessions that expanded all participants’ knowledge bases. CBM India, with a dedication to inclusive eye care, offered riveting papers and incisive keynotes, facilitating engaging dialogues on critical themes. 

CBM India’s contributions addressed a wide range of subjects, including financing vision centers, women’s eye care, technology for fair access, potential beyond Grant in Aid, and the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in eye care. One noteworthy accomplishment is the collection of disaggregated data on disability, which is a critical step toward better understanding and resolving eye health issues. CBM India has emphasized its expertise in managing vision centers and reaching out to underserved rural regions by providing eye care on wheels. This method has aided in closing gaps in the accessibility of eye care for persons with disabilities and their communities. 

CBM India

“Participation in the 17th VISION 2020: The Right to Sight-INDIA national conference has been an inspiring journey for CBM India,” said Dr. Sara Varughese, Managing Trustee of CBM India Trust. We are firmly devoted to the cause of universal eye care and ensuring that no one is left behind. Our participation in this conference allowed us to share our knowledge, learn from others, and renew our commitment to revolutionizing eye care services in India. We can have a tremendous impact on our country’s vision and health if we work together.” 

CBM India Trust, in collaboration with VISION2020 – The Right to Sight, sponsored a network consultation in March 2023 to discuss the current situation of eye care services in Karnataka.