As India moves towards Universal Health Coverage, making eye care accessible for persons with disabilities, marginalized communities, and older adults remains a priority. At the 20th VISION 2020: The Right to Sight – INDIA Annual Conference, CBM India showcased research, evidence, and inclusive eye care models to strengthen equitable eye health systems.
Hosted by Sankara Eye Foundation in association with VISION 2020: The Right to Sight – INDIA, the conference brought together eye care experts, policymakers, researchers, and development partners to discuss the future of eye care in India.
Highlighting Inclusive Solutions
As a founding member of VISION 2020: The Right to Sight – INDIA, CBM India contributed through technical sessions, research presentations, and panel discussions on disability-inclusive eye health.
Sony Thomas, Executive Director, CBM India Trust, called for disability inclusion to be embedded across eye health programmes so that persons with disabilities do not face physical, communication, attitudinal, or financial barriers. As per the press release, Sathish Nagappan, Project Manager, presented findings from 127 Inclusive Vision Centers, highlighting their financial sustainability and social impact, while Vinoo Mathew, Chief – Development & Sustainability, stressed the importance of CSR and philanthropic investments to strengthen Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) services.
Strengthening Eye Care Across India
Commenting on the conference, Sony Thomas said inclusive eye health is essential to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and must remain central to India’s healthcare system.
During 2024–25, CBM India’s eye health initiatives reached 14 states, screening more than 16.5 lakh people, supporting over 3,200 cataract surgeries, and training healthcare providers. Through partnerships with governments, hospitals, and communities, the organisation continues to expand disability-inclusive eye care and ensure that no one is left behind.