omlog: a blog by Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India!

Rays of 95

             

Round Table is an organization of non-political and non-sectarian young men between the age group of 18 and 40. Its aim is to promote service, fellowship and goodwill in National and International affairs. Round Table India believes in Community Service through the Fellowship of its members. The unique feature of this organization is that it always remains young, because the Tablers retire when they turn 40, giving way to younger people.

“Rays of 95” is a program, conceived by MMRT 95 to provide for complex surgeries such as retinal detachment, glaucoma to poor patients through Sankara Nethralaya over a period of 1 year.  While there are a number of benefactors for minor ophthalmic surgeries, the major surgeries do not find many takers due to the cost. It is this gap that MMRT wishes to address

MMRT 95 is proposing to make this a regular annual contribution thereby deepening its commitment to provide for complicated ophthalmic surgeries to the poor and indigent.”

http://www.hindu.com/2007/11/13/stories/2007111362600200.htm

Inauguration of Dr G Sitalakshmi Memorial clinic for ocular surface disorders

       

The inauguration of Dr G Sitalakshmi Memorial clinic for ocular surface disorders was held on 05^th November 2007 at Sankara Nethralaya. The occasion marked the dedication of the ocular surface clinic in memory of Dr. G Sitalakshmi and the launch of the “MOOKP Training Programme”.

Dr. S S Badrinath, Chairman Emeritus, welcomed the gathering and reminisced the great work done by Dr. G Sitalakshmi.  He was extremely appreciative of and grateful to Prof. Falcinelli for all his contribution towards the initiation of the MOOKP procedure in India at Sankara Nethralaya.   Dr. Geetha Iyer spoke about the genesis of the ocular surface clinic at SN which offers comprehensive management of dry eye and ocular surface disorders.  Our results of the MOOKP procedure were presented by Dr. S Vinay.   Dr. Bhaskar Srinivasan spoke regarding the need for a training programme for MOOKP.   Prof. Falcinelli remembered Dr. GS with choking emotions and innumerable words of praise for her skills and as a person.   He mentioned that the most appropriate tribute to her would be to continue the good work done by her. 

http://www.hindu.com/2007/11/06/stories/2007110661810700.htm

Sudarsana Homam was performed in Sankara Nethralaya on 23rd Sep, Sunday

Sudarsana Homam was performed in JKCN Campus, Sankara Nethralaya for the well being of Nethralaya, its Patients, Employees & their family members, Well Wishers, Donors & our Country at 8.00 A.M on sunday.

Two days workshop on Tele-ophthalmolgy at Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai

                         

A Regional Workshop on Tele-ophthalmology is being conducted by NPCB(National program for control of blindness), Ministry of Health & Welfare, Govt of India , New Delhi at SN, Chennai on September 20th & 21st. About 30 Doctors from all over South India are attending this workshop.

NPCB was launched in 1976 as a centrally sponsored program to reduce prevalence of blindness.

The workshop was inaugurated by Shri. N.Ram , Editor-in-chief, The Hindu, between 10.00 & 10.30AM today.

This workshop shall  serve as a eye opener to all the participants, giving them a detailed knowledge on Tele-ophthalmology & its activities.

Independence Day Celebrations at Sankara Nethralaya

We, the family of Sankara Nethralaya take great pride & pleasure in saluting our Mother India, on her 60^th year of independence.

Glimpse of yesterday’s happenings….

The family of Sankara Nethralaya doubles its happiness by celebrating the 60^th year of independence and centenary celebrations of Late Sri. Ki. Va. Jagannathan. The celebrations happened at Jagadguru Kanchi Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi Nethra  Nilayam (JKCN campus), 21, Pycrofts Garden Road, Chennai.

The celebrations started at 8.30 A.M , First of which was the  National Flag hoisting  by the chief guest Kavignar  A. Arivoli. Sankara Nethralaya was proud to have the family of Ki.Va. Jagannathan on stage along with the respected chairman, Dr. Lingam Gopal & Kavignar A. Arivoli. Dr, Nivedita Narayanan, Associate consultant took the privilege of welcoming the esteemed members on stage. This was followed by the distribution of mementos & inspiring speeches given by the Tamil Genius A. Arivoli & the family members of Ki.Va.Jagannathan. After which, Awards were given for The Man & Woman of the Year (2), 20 Years of service (7) & 10 years of service (20) & Maximum eye donation pledge award .

The grand function came to an end by the Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr Bhaskara Srinivasan, Associate Consultant followed by scrumptious breakfast.

   

         

                                 

11th In House Cricket Match - DIPANKAR CHATTERJEE CUP

The Eleventh In House Cricket Match For the DIPANKAR CHATTERJEE CUP held on 29.07.2007 (Sunday) at CLRI Grounds, Adayar, Chennai. 4 Teams Participated in the Competition.

Arul Kumar XI Team Defeated Balashankar XI Team by 32 Runs to claim the Dipankar Chatterjee Cup.

      

Inauguration of SEAGIG Conference

The South East Asia Glaucoma Interest Group (SEAGIG) conference was in inaugurated by the Honourable President of India His Excellency Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on December 1st 2006. Honourable President delivered an inspiring talk through video conferencing from Rashtrapati Bhavan on Glaucoma.  He spoke about the prevalence, the latest trends in treatment and the future direction in glaucoma diasgnosis and therapy. 

The full content of this inspiring talk can be seen by clicking the following link:
http://www.presidentofindia.nic.in/scripts/eventslatest1.jsp?id=1367

Vision2020 Board Meeting at Sankara Nethralaya

Vision 2020 Board Meeting at Sankara Nethralaya on 18th November 2006. The vision 2020 team was taken on hospital tour and explained about the facilities of Sankara Nethralaya.

Meeting for a cause

A meeting of the city’s elite chartered accountants was arranged by Sankara Nethralaya on November 17, 2006.  The get-together was organized to introduce Sankara Nethralaya’s path breaking project National Institute for Research in Visual Sciences and Ophthalmology (NIRVO) and seek the support of the Chartered Accountants.  Mr. R. Seshasayee, Managing Director, Ashok Leyland and President, CII was the special invitee. 

A

Following presentations about Sankara Nethralaya, by Dr. Tarun Sharma and about NIRVO and the need for research in India by Dr S S Badrinath,  Mr. Seshasayee gave his address.  He applauded the idea of India-Centric Research and said that, that was what is most required in the country right now.  He urged the Chartered accountants to motivate their friends & clients to support Sankara Nethralaya and NIRVO.

Inauguration of Vidyasagar Institute of Biomedical Technology and Science

Vidyasagar Institute of Biomedical Technology and Science(VIBS) was inaugurated on 25th October 2006 by Eminent Scientist Prof. M.S. Swminathan, Chairman, M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation. The Vidyasagar Institute of Biomedical Technology and Science is a joint venture of Medical Research Foundation and Sri Vidyasagar Educational Trust. 

Iravatham Mahadevan, founder and chairman, Sri Vidyasagar Educational Trust, contributed a sum of Rs 40 lakh at the function to mark the inauguration of Vidyasagar Institute of Biomedical Technology & Science.  The institution is affiliated to the Birla Institute of Technology and Science and offers MS degree in Medical Biotechnology. It also offers several clinical research and continuing medical education programmes.

Dr. S S Badrinath, Chairman, Medical Research Foundation, Prof. H N Madhavan, Director Research, Vision Research Foundation, Dr. Lingam Gopal, Chairman Elect, Medical Research Foundation, Mr. S Gurumurthy, columnist, Mr. A K Venkatasubramanian, Chairman, Catalyst Trust and Dr. S Venkateswaran, Professor emeritus, BITS, Pilani were also present.

Continuing Education

A training programme for Social Workers of Teleophthalmology and Medical Sociology was held on 14th October 2006 at Sankara Nethralaya.  The training was conducted by Dr.M.Thamilarasan, Lecturer, Department of Sociology, University of Madras, Mr. Vidyakaar, Founder Chairman, Udavum Karangal and Mr. Harihara Subramaninan, Chairman, Mother India Foundation.  Mr. T. Rathinam, DGM - IT, Mr. V. Murali, Manager, Electronic Communication Department, Mr. A.P. Irungovel, Manager, Medical Sociology Department and Dr. R. R. Sudhir, Consultant of Sankara Nethralaya addressed the gathering.  Such programs help the team at Sankara Nethralaya update their knowledge.

Sankara Ratna Award

Sankara Ratna Award 2005 was bestowed on Sri. S. V. Acharya, Public Defender Service, DC, USA, Honorary Treasurer, Sankara Nethralaya Ophthalmic Mission Trust USA on 14th October 2006 in recognition of his outstanding & dedicated work in support of Sankara Nethralaya through the Sankara Nethralaya Ophthalmic Mission Trust Inc. USA.  Mr. David T. Hopper, Consul General of the United States of America in Chennai presented the award and addressed the gathering.    Padmashri T.H. Vikku Vinayakram music concert ('Sapthaakshara' - Percussion Ensemble) was organized at the end of the function.   

Mr. Acharya is currently working with the Federal Government of the USA as in charge of Budgetary Operations at the Public Defender Service of the District of Columbia. Mr. Acharya is also the founder trustee of the Sankara Nethralaya Ophthalmic Mission Trust founded in 1988, an organization whose mission is to spread information about the work being done by Sankara Nethralaya, in the USA.  Mr. Acharya has helped to organize many fund raising events in the USA to collect donations for Sankara Nethralaya.

CME on Age Related Macular Degeneration

Prof. Prunte from University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland visited Sankara Nethralaya on 9th October 2006. He delivered a talk on AMD.

MS Amma’s 90th birthday

People generally think that a ‘Philanthropist” is someone who donates large amount of money.  But Philanthropy actually means “Love of human kind”.  Therefore in the literal sense of the word Smt. Subbulakshmi fondly called Ms. Amma was one of the greatest philanthropists.  MS Amma's 90th birthday was celebrated at Sankara Nethralaya on 9th October 2006.

Denaturing high performance liquid chromatography

Dr. K.Lily Therese, Reader in Microbiology, Sankara Nethralaya was offered a six Fellowship by Alcon laboratories, Fort Worth, Texas, USA. The training was on Application of Denaturing high performance liquid chromatography (Dhplc) followed by  DNA sequencing technique for rapid species level detection of bacterial and fungal genomes directly from culture negative intraocular fluids of  endophthalmitis patients  and Ribotyping  technique for identifying the bacterial isolates to species and strain level.  She was also honoured with a memento in recognition of the contributions to Ophthalmic Research.

The Photograph was taken during the farewell party attended by Dr. Gerald Cagle, (Senior Vice president R&D) Dr. Barry Schlech,( Vice President, Pharmaceutical Technology & Microbiology and Dr. David Stroman (Director Anti infective laboratory) and all the Microbiology Staff at the Alcon Research Laboratory   FortWorth, Texas, USA. The fellowship offered by Alcon Laboratories, Inc. has further strengthened the collaborative research programmes of Vision Research Foundation.

Quality is our Mantra!

Total Quality Management, shortly known as 'TQM' is a well-proven method for improving the quality in an organization. SN has been into the TQM initiative since 1997 and has few successes. In a continued attempt to improve quality, a programme on 'TQM Tools' for some of the new joiners is organized at Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai. This session was taken by our TQM Guru Dr T V Subramanian.

The NABL audit for Clinical Laboratories was held on 30th Sep and 1st Oct 2006 at Sankara Nethralaya.

Towards “Scientific Ophthalmic Dispensing”

Sankara Nethralaya, a unit of Medical Research Foundation and Essilor signed a landmark MoU to start the “FIRST SCHOOL OF DISPENSING” in India.  In a meeting attended by Dr. S S Badrinath, Chairman, Medical Research Foundation and Mr. Hubert Sagniereres, President, Essilor, North America & Europe, CEO, Essilor of America Inc., Mr. Patrick Cherrier, President, Essilor-Asia Pacific, Mr. Jayanth.B. MD, Essilor India Private Limited  on 3rd October 2006, it was decided to launch a school of dispensing that would incorporate the existing Distance Learning Program for optical sales personnel besides offering certificate courses.

Celebration Time!!

The 29th Foundation day of Sankara Nethralaya was celebrated with great joy by the employees of the organization along with family members.  A “day-out” at the VGP Golden Beach was organized for the employees and their families.

Employees who had completed 20 years of service were awarded in recognition of their service.  First to receive the award was Dr. S S Badrinath, Founder – Chairman  of Sankara Nethralaya.  What with songs, dances, skits and debates, the foundation day proved a grand success!

Science and Spirituality

The 13th Sri. V. Venugopal Endowment Lecture was delivered by Dr. Sudha Seshayyan, Professor of Anatomy, Stanley Medical College, Chennai on 16th September 2006.  Requested to speak on Science & Spirituality, Dr Sudha delivered a lecture titled “Science, Life and the Looking glass”.

It’s graduation time!

Sankara Nethralaya is known world-wide as not only a hospital but as a teaching institution.  September is a special month in the calendar of Sankara Nethralaya, for students belonging to various streams of Ophthalmic Science graduate.

The Graduation Ceremony for Bachelor of Science in Optometry, Bachelor of Science in Ophthalmic Assistant, Master of Philosophy in Optometry and Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Technology was held on 9th September.  Dr. B.K. Krishnaraj Vanavarayar, Chairman, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Coimbatore was the Chief Guest and delivered the Convocation address. 

During the program, Mr. S. Bharath, S/o. Mrs. Lakshmi Sivaraman, Department of Patient Service, Sankara Nethralaya received a grant of Rs. 40,000 from the Dhingra Trust for his outstanding performance in Higher Secondary Exam.  He has joined engineering. 

Age Related Macular Degeneration

The 2nd session of the Continuing Medical Education programme on "Age Related Macular Degenerataion "organized by Sankara Nethralaya in collaboration with Novartis was held at Sankara Nethralaya on 10th September 2006.  The program is specifically aimed at General Ophthalmologist. 

The technique and guidelines of a new treatment modality called photodynamic therapy was elaborated. This has been recognized by FDA for treatment of vision threatening type of ARMD i.e. the ‘wet’ ARMD. Photodynamic therapy is a two step procedure which involves an intravenous injection of a nontoxic photosensitive drug followed by its activation by non thermal laser setting up a photochemical reaction. This reaction causes selective ablation of the new vessels formed under the macula without causing collateral damage to the overlying retina. Various clinical trials conducted worldwide have proven its efficacy to prevent severe visual loss in ‘wet’ Age related macular degeneration.

Real Time PCR : Recent Trends

Lab India conducted a one day seminar – cum – demo on Real time PCR systems at Vision Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai on 2nd September.  Nearly 60 participants from various institutions attended the programme.   Dr. J Madhavan, Senior Scientist, SN ONGC Dept. of Genetics & Molecular Biology spoke on application of real time PCR in Retinoblastoma work at Sankara Nethralaya.

“Sudharsana Homam”

"Sudharsana Homam" was performed for the prosperity and well-being of Nethralaya, our Patients, our Employees and their family members, Board Members, Well-wishers & Donors and our country on 6th September 2006 at Sankara Nethralaya .  Poornahudi was performed and prasadham was distributed to all.

Giants come together

Sanakara Nethralaya, Chennai, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai and L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad are the three major eye hospitals in India.  Considering the benefit to India that could accurse if they work together, the three giants met on 28th August 2006 at Sankara Nethralaya for a preliminary discussion on how they can work together.  A small step by the three hospitals that could bring big rewards for ophthalmic care in India.

Sankara Nethralaya celebrates 28th Birthday in Style – launched Research Project

NIRVO - National Institute for Research in Visual Sciences and Ophthalmology, a project to develop the state-of-art facility for research in ophthalmology at Sankara Nethralaya was formally launched on 27th August 2006 at the function held at Chennai.   

Mr. P. Chidambaram, Finance Minister, Government of India was the chief guest at the function and launched the NIRVO project.  In his key note address Mr. P. Chidambaram said that “eye care in the country had grown by leaps and bounds. Now, the best ophthalmic care in the world is available in India. In fact, Chennai, more than any other city in India, was earned a place of distinction in medical care on the world map.” -courtesy The Hindu.  Mr. A.M. Naik, Chairman and Managing Director, Larsen & Toubro dedicated the VRF Referral Laboratory.  Mr. Venu Srinivasan, Chairman, TVS Motor Company inaugurated the Affymetrix Genechip Microarray facility.   Mr. Pradeep Todi and Mr. Homi Bhabha, donors and well-wishers participated in the function.

Ruby Banik Award and Swarnalatha Punshi Award

The scientific paper Presentation for Ruby Banik Award and Swarnalatha Punshi Award were held at Sankara Nethralaya on 24th August 2006.  Dr. Meenakshi S, Dr. Prema Padmanabhan and Dr. J. Biswas were the judges.    The Ruby Banik Award was given to Dr. G. Sitalakshmi for the presentation on "Transplanting ex vivo cultured Corneal Limbal Epithelia (ReliNethraTM) in Eyes with Unilateral Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency (LSCD): Methodology and Results" and the Swarnalatha Punshi Award was given to Dr. S. Krishnakumar for the presentation on “Phenotypic Characterization of Human Limbal Epithelial Cells expanded on Chtiosan”

Awards Galore on Independence Day

Independence Day was celebrated at Sankara Nethralaya on 15th August 2006.  Shri H. Ramakrishnan, Administrator and Television personality was the chief guest of the function.  The Man and Woman of the year, Mr. Banukumar and Ms. Akila Ganesan hoisted the flag.  Over 50 employees received “outstanding achievement” award.  Employees who had completed 10 years of service at Sankara Nethralaya were commended for their service and received awards.  The Dipankar Chatterjee Cup 2006 inhouse cricket competition was conducted and the Match Winner and runner up award was also given at the function.

A new venture...

To bring out the thoughts of the individuals in the organization and to share ideas and views, a new ‘LECTURE SERIES” has been launched at Sankara Nethralaya.  This program, which would be conducted every Saturday, will be an opportunity for Sankara Nethralaya employees to speak on various inspirational topics and share their thoughts with their colleagues.  The first lecture of the series was commenced on the 5th August 2006. 

  Mr. A.P. Irungovel, Manager, Medical Sociology Department talking on the topic "Ennangal .....Thooya Ennangal" i.e  "Thinking.....Pure Thinking".

'Eye' T

An Information Technology Meet between Sankara Nethralaya and IIT, CAIR, DRDO, Bangalore, INTEL, Bangalore was held on 6th August 2006 at The PARK Hotel, Chennai.  Mr. Kamkoti, Prof. B. Ravindran, Prof. Sankar Balachandran, Prof, Anuradh Mittal, Prof. Manivannan from IIT, Madras, Ms. Sangeetha Srivastava, CAIR, DRDO, Bangalore, and Mr. Rajagopal from Intel had a meeting with the team from Sankara Nethralaya.

A Three Day National Workshop on IT applications in Eye Care was held at Aravind Eye Care System, Madurai from 3rd - 5th August 2006.  Two eye care majors in the State — Sankara Nethralaya and Aravind Eye Care System — jointly organized the workshop under the auspices of Vision 2020 - The Right to Sight India, a national organization.

More than 70 delegates from India, Bangladesh and Nepal attended the workshop, besides the participation of a few IT companies. Dr. S. S. Badrinath, Chairman, Sankara Nethralaya, the national executive director of Vision 2020-India, P.K.M. Swamy, and its president, R. D. Thulasiraj, also spoke. The founder of Sify.com, R. Ramraj, was among those who took part in the inaugural function.

 

Workshop on Computer Vision Syndrome

Elite School of Optometry, unit of Medical Research Foundation and Ohio state university,USA conducted  a two day workshop on 28th and 29th July 2006 at Le Royal   Meridien, Chennai. The first day was on “Improving Visual Comfort and Productivity in Computer Users”. The program was aimed at the professionals from IT and ITeS companies. The second day was on "Computer Vision Syndrome" for Eye care professionals". 

Prof. James Sheedy of Ohio State University, Dr S S Badrinath, Chairman and President, Medical Research Foundation, Dr Lingam Gopal, Chairman-Elect, Medical Research Foundation, Dr K. P Mishra, Eminent Cardiologist, Dr Pappu Venugopalarao, Eminent Indian Music personality, Mrs Saraniya, ESO alumni and  our internal faculty delivered the talks and interacted with the delegates. A hands-on session on ergonomics, lighting and eye care was part of the program.  This was the first workshop of its kind on this topic in India.

International Patient Service at Sankara Nethralaya

Department of International Patient Service, Corporate Cell and the renovated office of Department of Patient Relations was inaugurated at Sankara Nethralaya on 24th July 2006 by Poojya Shri Dayananda Saraswathi Swamigal.  Addressing the gathering after the inauguration, Swami Dayananda Saraswathi, speaking about the importance of care, said, 'human beings should show care towards everything. Nature no doubt is caring towards the living beings, but it's the humans who have to be reminded about care as they have long forgotten it’. The newly renovated office has been funded by the Swamiji's AIM for Seva Trust.

   

Heritage Car Rally

The Madras Heritage Motoring Club organized the Heritage Car Rally on 16th July 2006, which caught attention of automobile enthusiasts in the city.  The show was started from Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai. The Rally had a unique theme that the participants should come dressed in period costumes along with their family as they drive their vintage Morris-8, Austins, Plymouths, Citroens, Buicks, and Vauxhalls.  My TVS, an integrated car services brand launched by the TVS group in 2003, was the chief sponsors of the show.  Mr. Muthiah Muralitharan, International Cricketer, Srilanka was the chief guest and flagged off the Rally.

 

First Aid Workshop

St.John  Ambulance , Chennai, conducted  FIRST AID WORKSHOP at Elite School of Optometry for the Final year students of BS Optometry on 13th and 14th July  2006. Mr S. Chandran, Lecturer from St. John Ambulance conducted the workshop. Dr. Sukumar, Faculty, Elite School of Optometry, conducted evaluation of the first aid knowledge of our students at the end of the workshop. The feedback from the students was positive and the workshop went off well.

 

Sankara Nethralaya In-house Cricket Competition

The In House Cricket competition was started in the year 1997 as one of the fifty projects in our 50th year of independence. This tournament is conducted as part of the employee’s welfare measure. This tournament generates tremendous amount of enthusiasm among the players and also a good opportunity to know each other.  It also inculcates good team spirit.  The Cup is named after Mr.Dipankar Chatterjee a Well Wisher of Medical Research Foundation.  The 10th In house cricket competition was held at Central Leather Research Institute ground on 16th July 2006.  Six teams were formed and among the three winners two teams qualified for the finals by virtue of their faster scoring rates.  It was won by the team led by Mr.Hari, Financial Controller, Sankara Nethralaya.

NIRVO Awareness Campaign

A campaign to increase awareness about the new project of Sankara Nethralaya – National Institute for Research in Vision Science and Ophthalmology was conducted at Prathana Drive-In Theatre, Chennai, on 8th, 9th and 10th July 2006.  The campaign targeting 1000 people, received widespread support.

Sankara Nethralaya's commitment to Rural India - Chapter III

The rural population of India stands at 72.22%. But the number of ophthalmologists living in the rural areas of the country is around 25%.  Adequate eye care therefore remains a dream for many of the people in rural areas.

Sankara Nethralaya stepped into the “Need Gap” in October 2003 with the launch of the Rural Mobile Teleophthalmology Project connecting four districts of North Tamilnadu, this project has brought eye care to the doorsteps.

The 2nd chapter in this rural revolution in Eye care was the launch of the Karnataka Diabetic Retinopathy Project and Rural Mobile Karnataka Teleophthalmology Project in 7th October 2005 covering six districts of Karnataka.

The latest step in this revolution was the launch of Mobile Refraction Van.

Sankara Nethralaya in collaboration with Essilor India Pvt Ltd launched India’s first Mobile Refraction Van on 7th June 2006 at Bellur Village, Nara Sapura Hobli, Kolar Taluk, Karnataka.  This fully equipped mobile refraction van has a clinic with all instruments necessary to carry out an eye examination and dispense spectacles in a matter of few hours at the door step of rural Karnataka. 

Dr. B.K.S. Iyengar, founder of the Bellur Krishnamachar and Seshamma Smaraka Nidhi Trust and Mr. Patrick Cherrier, President Essilor, Asia Pacific was the chief guest.  Prof. S. Chandrashekar Shetty presided over the Inauguration function.  Mr. R.L. Jalappa, MP Felicitated the function.  Dr. S.S. Badrinath, Chairman, Medical Research Foundation, Mr. B. Jayanth, Managing Director, Essilor India, Mr. V. Vaidyanathan, Honorary Secretary & Treasurer, Medical Research Foundation, Mr. B. Raghu, Managing Trustee, Bellur Krishmachar & Seshamma Smaraka Nidhi Trust participated in the function.

Dr. B.K.S. Iyengar, is one of the foremost exponents of yoga in the world.  The method propagated by him - a unique combination of art and science, is being popularly referred to as Iyengar Yoga. Dr. Iyengar, respectfully called Guruji, has travelled all over the world in an effort to propagate the great Indian culture of yoga.

Dr. S. S. Badrinath, speaking on the occasion said, “We believe that this Customer Centric Mobile Refraction Van will set a trend in providing basic eye care services to rural India which accounts for the largest proportion of the Indian population.  Sankara Nethralaya is proud to be associated with this project”.  Commenting on this memorable occasion, Mr. B. Jayanth, said “Essilor is very excited to be working on such an important community eye-care venture.  We are committed to bringing quality eye care in rural areas and are proud to contribute to the development of Karnataka”.

Age Related Macular Degeneration Workshop

Continuing Medical Education programme on "Age Related Macular Degeneration "was organized by Sankara Nethralaya in collaboration with Novartis on 28th May 2006. It was attended by over 70 ophthalmologists from Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Calcutta.

The Sankara Nethralaya faculty emphasized the role of various investigative tools to detect early stages of ARMD was discussed. Dr. Tarun Sharma, Director of Shri Bhagvan Mahavir Vitreoretinal Department,Sankara Nethralaya said that the role of general ophthalmologists in early detection and treatment can be extremely important. He also spoke on the changing scenario in treatment of Age Related Macular Degeneration.

The technique and guidelines of a new treatment modality called photodynamic therapy was elaborated. This has been recognized by FDA for treatment of vision threatening type of ARMD i.e. the ‘wet’ ARMD. Photodynamic therapy is a two step procedure which involves an intravenous injection of a nontoxic photosensitive drug followed by its activation by non thermal laser setting up a photochemical reaction. This reaction causes selective ablation of the new vessels formed under the macula without causing collateral damage to the overlying retina. Various clinical trials conducted worldwide have proven its efficacy to prevent severe visual loss in ‘wet’ Age related macular degeneration.

Other upcoming treatment modalities like intraocular injection of steroids as well as vascular endothelial growth factor in inhibiting further growth of sub retinal vessels were discussed.  Role of a healthy life style and eating habits cannot be overemphasized. Where smoking an alcohol can increase the incidence of ARMD, vegetables and fruits contain antioxidants which can have a protective effect.

National Accreditation Board

Dr. Thuppin Venkatesh, Professor & Head, Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, St. John's Medical College, Bangalore as Lead Asessor, NABL, New Delhi visited Sankara Nethralaya on 14th May 2006 for pre-assessment audit for NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing & Calibration Laboratories), New Delhi for the SNSC Clinical Laboratories that included all the Clinical Laboratories at all three centres of Sankara Nethralaya.

Distance Learning Programme in Optical Sales

Medical Research Foundation and the Silmo Essilor Trust are offering a correspondence course in "Optic Sales" for the first time in India.  This course is called the Certified Course in Optical Sales and aims at improving the technical knowledge of optical sales counter personnel.  As the culmination of the nine month program, contact classes were held in Bangalore, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkatta, Delhi and Chennai.  The students were assesed following the classes and they received the certificates.  The final contact class was held in Chennai at the Elite School of Optometry.  Dr. S. S. Badrinath, Chairman, Medical Research Foundation addressed the students.  He congratulated them on successfully completing the program and urged them to continue upgrading themselves.

Ministering Angels

Madam Florence Nightingale, “The Lady with the Lamp”, Patron of Nursing Profession was born on May 12, 1820. Her birthday is celebrated as “International Nurses Day”. It is indeed a landmark day in any calendar for it celebrates the spirit of sacrifice and dedication shown by the nursing profession. The nursing personnel form the backbone of any hospital. They are the silent caretakers of sick and ill, working tirelessly to ensure the well being of the people in their care. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, Hon’ble President of India while speaking to nursing students once said: “When I see doctors, I see pain removers. When I see dentists, I see those who bring smiles on the faces of people. When I see nurses, I am reminded of angels moving in a full moon night. In a hospital, when no doctors, no relatives are around in the nights, the nurses provide consolation and relief. At that time, nurses appear to be angels.”

Sankara Nethralaya has been celebrating International Nurses Day for the last 5 years. This year Nurses Day was celebrated on a larger scale than before by conducting a seminar, which was attended by the nurses from Sundaram Medical Foundation, Kanchi Kamakoti Child’s Trust Hospital, and Meenakshi College of Nursing besides the nurses from Sankara Nethralaya. The theme of the program was “SAFE STAFFING SAVES LIVES”. The seminar included topics like Emergency patient care in Intensive Care Units, Caring for paediatric patients, and Needs of Elderly patients. Over 100 people attended the seminar. The speakers at the seminar included Dr. S. Sivakumar, Geriatrician, Ms. Jayrani, Nursing Supervisor, Sundaram Medical Foundation and Ms. Manimegalai, ICU Nurse, Kanchi Kamakoti Child’s Trust Hospital.

As part of the celebration, the Nursing personnel who had completed over 15 years at Sankara Nethralaya were felicitated. These included Mrs. Alice Math, Mr. A. Mahalingam, Mr. P. Suresh Kumar and Mrs. E. Porchelvi.

Summer Training

One month computer training for Sankara Nethralaya employee's children was inaugurated on 27th April 2006.  This programme has been organized as a summer activity for the children.  Fifty two children utilized this opportunity.

Lt. Col. V. Rangachari Birth Centenary Celebration

The Birth centenary celebration of Lt. Col. V. Rangachari was held at Sankara Nethralaya on March 25, 2006, jointly organized by the Madras City Ophthalmological Association and Medical Research Foundation.

Lt. Col. V. Rangachari was one of the foremost Ophthalmologists in India. The founder secretary of the Madras City Ophthalmological Association, Lt. Col. Rangachari worked as a tutor in Madras Medical College and later as Lecturer, Reader and Professor of Ophthalmology at the Stanley Medical College.

He was commissioned as lieutenant in the Indian Medical Service in 1940 at the outbreak of the Second World War. He was awarded the Military Cross for his gallantry and courage in the face of the enemy. He was released from the army with the honorary rank in the lieutenant colonel in 1947.

The birth centenary function was organized at Sankara Nethralaya to commemorate and celebrate the greatness of Lt. Col. Rangachari. Dr. S. S. Badrinath, Chairman, Medical Research Foundation welcomed the gathering and spoke about his association with Lt. Col. Rangachari. He recollected that while he appeared for the Ophthalmology exam in his final year MBBS, his examiner was Lt. Col. Rangachari. He received the highest marks in Ophthalmology and that defined his progress in the field of Ophthalmology.

The meeting was also addressed by Dr. Guhanandan, Dr. K. Ravi, Dr. Govindaswamy, Dr. T.R. Swaminathan, Dr. J. Chidambaram, Dr. N.S. Sundaram and all speakers recalled the gracious and generous nature of Lt. Col. Rangachari.The All India Ophthalmological Society felicitates the best paper each year by awarding the “Col. Rangachari Award for overall best paper”. The Col. Rangachari Award is given to the best student in Ophthalmology.

For more details read link

Stress Management Programme by Trance Therapy

A program titled "Stress Management Programme by Trance Therapy" was conducted by Dr. Rishie, on 8th January 2006 at Kamaraj Arangam, Chennai. This program which was open to the general public was attended by over 15 people from Sankara Nethralaya. Dr. Rishie conducted a lucky draw during the program, the winner of which would receive two sessions of Trance Therapy and the organization with which the winner is associated would receive one free session on Trance Therapy.

Dr. Angayarkanni Narayanaswamy, Lecturer, Biochemistry Lab, Sankara Nethralaya was the lucky draw winner. As promised a program on "Stress Management Programme by Trance Therapy" was conducted by Dr. Rishie at the premises of Sankara Nethralaya on Sunday, February 5th 2006.

Spectra - "An Insight to your perception"

The students of Medical Research Foundation and the Department of Medical Sociology of Sankara Nethralaya, organized an eye and vision care exhibition at Sankara Nethralaya Rural Eye Hospital, St. Thomas Mount, Chennai, on January 28, 2006. The exhibition "SPECTRA" was inaugurated by Mr. C. Sylendra Babu I.P.S., Joint Commissioner of Police. The exhibition was held on 28th and 29th January 2006.

Inaugurating the exhibition, Mr. Sylendra Babu, mentioned that he was impressed to see the interest shown by the students towards community service, particularly to educate the public on eye care and other vision related information. He also showed interest in the concept of eye donation. He appreciated the fact that each stall was organized in a way depicting specific themes on eye care and eye diseases.

Dr. S.S. Badrinath, Chairman, Medical Research Foundation, Dr. Vasanthi Badrinath, Dr. T. S. Surendran, Vice-Chairman, Dr. K. Ravishankar, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. A.P. Irungovel, Manager - Medical Sociology, and Mr. R. Krishna Kumar, Principal, Elite School of Optometry, Unit of Medical Research Foundation also attended the inauguration.

The exhibition was well-attended by the general public, who came in large numbers to see and understand about the eye. Over 1000 visitors came to the exhibition and 100 people underwent free vision screening. The exhibition was arranged with the objective of educating and promoting awareness about the eye and its related problems,amongst the public. The key features of the exhibition included information on refractive errors and spectacle correction, contact lenses, eye infections, visual disorders in children, age related problems like cataract, and glaucoma. It also focused on newer areas like sports vision, eye donation, computer vision syndrome, genes and eyes, and refractive surgery.

A Puppet show and a skit on general eye problems were also staged. The exhibition also disseminated information on eduational courses offered by the institution. A face to face interview with eye specialists for the public was arranged on January 29, 2006 Sunday.

57th Republic Day celebrated at Sankara Nethralaya

The 57th Republic Day of the Indian Republic was celebrated with great joy by the employees of Sankara Nethralaya. Sri. B.S. Raghavan, IAS (Retd.,), was the Chief Guest for the function. He hoisted the National Flag on the Republic Day Celebration at Sankara Nethralaya on 26th January 2006 and delivered his keynote address. He said that it was the responsibility of every Indian to do his best with passion for the development of our country. In this respect, he said, Sankara Nethralaya has fulfilled its commitment to India. He said that SERVICE has 7 attributes: Sensitivity, Empathy, Responsiveness, Values, Involvement, Commitment, and Excellence. Sankara Nethralaya stood as an embodiment of these 7 attributes.

Employees who had completed 10 years of Service with the Foundation were honoured at the function. Merit Scholarships for the children of employees who have done well in their studies were also distributed. Dr. K. Ravishankar, Sri B.S. Raghavan, Dr. S.S. Badrinath, Dr. Vasanthi Badrinath.

New Partners in Eye Care

Guest Lecture was given by Dr. Mohan Sundararajan at Sankara Nethralaya on 19th January 2006 on the occaison of 80th Brithday of Dr. N.S. Sundaram

On the occasion of Dr. N.S. Sundaram's 80th Birthday, Dr. Mohan Sundararajan visited Sankara Nethralaya on 19th January 2006 and gave a lecture on "Emerging Trends in Nano Biotechnology".

Sankara Nethralaya opens Surgical Facilities

An Operation Theatre Complex was Inaugurated at Rural Eye Hospital, St. Thomas Mount center of Sankara Nethralaya, functioning at 8, G.S.T Road, Chennai on 18th January 2006. Dr. K. Vasudevan, Principal and Chairman of Prince Group of Educational Institutions inaugurated the New Operation Theatre Complex.

Our Network Expands

Sri Narayani Health & Research Centre, Vellore

The inauguration of the Ophthalmic wing at Sri Narayani Health & Research Centre, Vellore was held on 3rd January 2006. Dr. C. Madhavan will be the consultant ophthalmologists there. Both he and an optometrist from Sankara Nethralaya have been deputed to that centre. The Out Patient Department started functioning on 3rd January 2006, the day being the birthday of Sri Narayani Amma. The Operation Theatre would start functioning shortly.

Dr. Kumaraswami Health Centre, Kanniyakumari

Opening Ceremony of Teleophthalmology Connection Centre with Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai and Cancer Outpatient Department was held on 8th January 2006 at Dr. Kumaraswamy Health Centre, Perumalpuram, Kanniyakumari Dist. under the presidentship of Prof. S. P. Thiyagarajan. Dr. Gnanasoundari, Director of the centre welcome'd the gathering. MJF. Lion. G. V. Raman, Past Governor of Dist. 324A1, Lion C.T. Natesan, President, Lions club of Central Madras, Dr. Rajiv Raman, Director Incharge of Teleophthalmology, Sankara Nethralaya, Dr. T. Guna Sagaran, Dean, Kanyakumari Medical College, Dr. Samuel Dhason, Mission Compound feliciated the function. MJF. Lion. Dr. C. V. Ananthasayaram Past President, Lions Club of Central madras and the donor of the entire project spoke on the occasion. Mr. S. Rajarathinam, Mr. Seetharam, Trustees and the member from Lions club of Central madras also participated in the function.

Telehealth Technology Course

The students of Anna University's Telehealth Technology Department visited Sankara Nethralaya on 24th December 2005 for a one-day training session on Teleophthalmology. The Telehealth Technology Course is a joint effort of Apollo Telemedicine Networking Foundation and the Anna University, Chennai.

International Continuing Medical Education

Sankara Nethralaya participated in the International Continuing Medical Education Programme organised by the Department of Ophthalmology, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, under the auspices of Oman Medical Specialty Board, SQU College of Medicine and the Oman Ministry of Health through Video Conferencing on 8th December 2005 at Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai.

The main topic selected was ' Behcet's Disease Uveitis - 1'. The speakers were Dr. J Robert Kalden from Erlangen who spoke on Vasculitis, Dr. A Kampik from Munich, Dr. Manfred Zierhut from Tubingen, Dr. Franz Grehn from Wurzburg besides speakers from the Oman University and the Ministry of Health.

The other topics covered were 1. Indications for vitrectomy, 2.  Medical treatment of M Behcets, 3.  Extinct VEP in Behcets following vitrectomy, 4.  New developments in the medical treatment of Behcet's and 5. Curative surgery for complications of uncontrolled Uveitis.

Indo-Israel Ophthalmic Congress

The first Indo Israel i2i Ophthalmic Congress was inaugurated by Dr. Gullapalli N. Rao - Chairman & President of International Agency for Prevention of Blindness and the Distinguished Chair of Eye Health, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute on 19th November 2005 at the Chennai Convention Centre, Nandambakkam, Chennai.

His Excellency Mr. David Danieli, the Israeli Ambassador to India was the guest of honour. He released the Abstract Book and in his address to the distinguished audience of ophthalmologists from all parts of the globe, said the symposium was a microcosm of the forward-moving India-Israel relationship. Besides, Medicine, Science, Technology and IT were some of the areas the two countries which shared trade amounting to around US $ 2.7 billion annually, could collaborate in.

The event was hosted by Sankara Nethralaya along with Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai; L.V.Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad; Shri.Ganapati Netralaya, Jalna and Sri.Sankaradeva Nethralaya, Guwahati. The event was organised by ophthalmologists of Sankara Nethralaya headed by Dr. Prema Padmanabhan and her team.

Addressing presspersons, Dr. Gullapalli N. Rao said the broad areas of collaboration are creating standards for eye care services in the country, providing education, clinical research and guiding national blindness control policy.

Dr. S.S.Badrinath, Chairman - Sankara Nethralaya, said the aim was to bring together talent and technology, which often took stand-alone positions. With almost 1.5 million of India's 1.4 billion people visually challenged, the country shouldered the biggest burden of global blindness. He said, "It is time to act together to develop common standards and achieve common goals".

Prof. Michael Blumenthal from Israel, pioneer of the 'Small Incision Cataract Surgery' and an educator for Indian ophthalmologists during periodic visits to India over the past twenty-five years, said the level of ophthalmic expertise in India was outstanding. He said, "It is one thing to usher in an innovation; quite  another to implement it across a layer of sustained excellence".

Dr.Ravi Thomas, Director - L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, stressed the importance of infrastructure building in rural areas alongside community outreach programmes, which had its own limitations. Dr.Thomas said "The exciting possibilities opened up by teleophthalmology should not distract us from broadbasing eye care infrastructure".

The two day conference also focussed on latest advances in the treatment of common disorders such as cataract, retinal diseases, glaucoma and the nascent sub speciality of oculoplasty.

There were nearly twenty stalls displaying various sophisticated equipment and the latest books pertaining to ophthalmology.

The two-day conference was very well attended by over 600 delegates from all over the country and as well as from Israel and Singapore.

The inaugural function concluded with a scintillating performance of Classical and Folk Dances by the 'Kalakshetra Foundation'.

About Salem Exhibition

The Commissioner of Police Mr. Abhashkumar inaugurated the eye exhibition organised by the TMS Eye Hospital, Salem, Tamilnadu, in association with the Chennai based Elite School of Optometry of Sankara Nethralaya at the Deiveegam Kalyana Mandapam on 13th October 2005.

The exhibition, aimed at creating awareness on various eye defects and its safety measures and had thirty display stalls. Students from various colleges including nursing and paramedical institutes participated in the exhibition.

Puppet shows to explain eye donation, safety measures and about cataract were organised. Free vision screening for the visitors were also performed. The organisers also conducted quiz programmes for college students on eye safety.

Chairman of the hospital Mr. Ramasamy Udaiyar presided over the function. Medical Director of the Hospital Dr. V. Siddharthan was present. The exhibition concluded on Sunday the 16th of October 2005.

Child Of Hope Gains Vision

Jennifer at NDTV.com writes:

Six-month-old baby Sukumar is all set to undergo his third eye surgery this Friday.

Born blind, he was found by the NDTV team at a temporary camp in Nagapattinam soon after the tsunami hit on December 26 last year.

With the money saved for his surgery lost to the waves, his parents have been in and out of the Sankara Nethralaya for surgeries that have given the child sight in his left eye.

The treatment has been free of cost and the grateful parents are excited about the prospect of their baby getting some vision.

"They've done one eye, now they say they have to do the other eye on Friday," said Selvaraj, Sukumar's father.

Baby Sukumar or the child of hope, as he is known, is now 10 months old and getting to be a bundle of energy.

He's just finished another check up and this is a prelude to what could probably be his last surgery at the end of the week.

Indo-Isreal Ophthalmic Congress

November 19 & 20, 2005 promises to be both exciting and enlightening. Professor Michael Blumenthal along with a galaxy of eminent speakers will share their knowledge on SICS and provide updates on the latest trends in glaucoma, oculoplasty, diabetic retinopathy and ARMD.

L. V. Prasad Eye Institute, Aravind Eye Hospital, Sri Sankaradeva Nethralaya, Guwahati and Shri Ganapati Netralaya, Jalna have joined hands with Sankara Nethralaya to co-host the Congress.

For details, please contact secretariat@i2ioc2005.org.

Coming Soon

Elite School of Optometry, part of the Medical Research Foundation, will be celebrating its 20th Anniversary in the year 2005. To commemorate this milestone, there will be an International Conference in Vision Science and Optometry in August 2005. The conference will be the first of its kind in India and will cover a variety of topics such as Myopia, Refraction, Contact Lens, Dispensing, Binocular Vision, Low Vision, Ocular and Retinal Physiology, Ocular Diseases and Management and Tele-Optometry. Several internationally acclaimed researchers and stalwarts of vision science and optometry will participate and present papers in the conference.

Elite School of Optometry was inaugurated in 1985 with guidance from Professor Jay M. Enoch, Dean Emeritus, School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, USA.

In the last 20 years, ESO has been acclaimed internationally as a quality optometry education center. ESO offers B.S., M.Phil, Ph.D in collaboration with BITS, Pilani. For details about the forthcoming conference, please write to eivoc_2005@rediffmail.com or varadharajanESO@rediffmail.com.

Paramacharya Aradhana

The 11th Aradhana function for Kanchi Paramacharya Shri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi Swamigal was performed at Sankara Nethralaya on January 7, 2005. The Paramacharya, fondly called Mahaperiyava, was the 68th Pontiff of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam.

The function started with the invocation being rendered by Sangeetha Kalanidhi Smt. R. Vedavalli. Dr. S. S. Badrinath, Chairman, Sankara Nethralaya, welcomed the gathering and introduced the Chief Guest, Kalyanapuram Sri Aravamudhachar.

The Chief Guest spoke about the greatness of Mahaperiyava and his influence on many people in India and outside. He spoke about the importance of human values. The function came to a close with the rendition of Mythreem Bajatha, a composition of Mahaperiyava, sung by the late Dr. M. S. Subbulakshmi at the United Nations praying for World Peace.

Coinciding with the Aradhana of Mahaperiyava the employees of Sankara Nethralaya have been donating a days’ salary to Sankara Nethralaya for the last several years. This year, however, the donation collected from the employees was instead delivered to aid the tsunami relief efforts in affected areas of South India.

EVC & DVC

Executive Vision Care (EVC) is a method developed by SN to bring comprehensive eye examination at the workplace, for the professionals at the corporate level. More than 1,300 professionals from Lister Metropolis, Cognizant Technology Solutions India Pvt. Ltd, Urjita Electronics, Ashok Leyland Finance Limited, IndusInd Bank and Tata Honeywell benefited with EVC in December alone.

Drivers Vision Checkup (DVC) has begun at Navasuja Sankara Nethralaya. On the first day alone 25 drivers from Ashok Leyland came in to have their eyes examined. Ms. Akila, Head of Auxiliary Services can be contacted at akila@sankaranethralaya.org regarding EVC & DVC.

Essilor at SN

Essilor, India conducted the technical training program for the staff of Optical Services on December 19, 2004 for the first time at Sankara Nethralaya.

Ayudha Pooja

As is customary, the SN family celebrated Ayudha Pooja, on the eve of October 22, 2004 marking the end of Navarathri, the colorful doll festival.

Art For Vision, Contd.

First of its kind art show, Art for Vision, was inaugurated by India's Honorable Finance Minister Mr. P. Chidambaram in Delhi.

Acclaimed artists contributed their artwork to the exhibition which is being held at Lalit Kala Academy, Delhi. The online catalog displays artwork and artist biographies, so that the public at large and private companies interested in the artwork can view them from the privacy of their own homes.

Please visit the picturesque site for more information on this philanthropic event. Consider buying the artwork displayed as it directly assists us in reaching our goals in helping Indians like yourself back in India.

World Sight Day Celebrations

The Elite School of Optometry and the C U Shah Rural Eye Hospital facility of Sankara Nethralaya celebrated the World Sight Day on October 14, 2004.

Doctors at Sankara Nethralaya counseled and screened patients all day at