Sightsavers India, in collaboration with AbbVie Therapeutics India Pvt. Ltd., strengthened its national initiative to address glaucoma-related visual impairment by organising a state-level consultation in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The programme forms part of an ongoing multi-city campaign aimed at increasing awareness, expanding early screening efforts, and mobilising action against glaucoma—one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness.
Bringing Stakeholders Together to Address Glaucoma
The consultation took place at Hilton Jaipur, Geejgarh House, where ophthalmologists, policymakers, public health experts, and representatives from civil society organisations gathered to discuss the growing burden of glaucoma in the region.
Through this platform, stakeholders collectively examined challenges related to glaucoma detection and management while identifying strategies to strengthen awareness and promote earlier diagnosis across Rajasthan.
Building on Last Year’s National Momentum
The 2026 campaign builds on the momentum created in the previous year. In 2025, five state-level consultations and a national consultation in New Delhi initiated broader dialogue around glaucoma prevention and eye health across India.
Building on that foundation, the Jaipur consultation deepened regional engagement by creating opportunities for local experts, government representatives, and healthcare professionals to exchange knowledge, identify gaps, and reinforce commitments toward improving eye health in the state.
Focus on Early Detection and Routine Eye Examinations
During the consultation, experts discussed key issues such as glaucoma risk factors, the importance of early diagnosis, and the need for regular eye examinations.
To reinforce these discussions with practical action, organisers set up glaucoma screening kiosks equipped with portable diagnostic tools at the venue. Participants could access on-site eye screenings, and individuals identified with potential risk factors received referrals for further clinical consultation and treatment.
Opening Remarks by Healthcare Leaders
The session began with a welcome address by Jatin Tiwari, Director – Programme Operations, Sightsavers India. Subsequently, Dr Rahul Rathod, Director, Medical Affairs, AbbVie Therapeutics India Pvt. Ltd., delivered the opening remarks.
The event also featured inaugural remarks by Dr Nagendra Singh Shekhawat, Head of the Ophthalmology Department, SMS Hospital, who emphasised the importance of strengthening glaucoma awareness and early screening initiatives.
Strengthening Systems for Early Diagnosis
RN Mohanty, CEO, Sightsavers India, highlighted the importance of sustained collaborative efforts in tackling glaucoma.
“With each consultation, we move closer to ensuring that communities recognise the signs of glaucoma and seek timely eye examinations. Addressing glaucoma requires more than awareness—it calls for stronger systems that enable timely detection and appropriate care. Through our collaboration with AbbVie Therapeutics India Pvt. Ltd., we are able to work closely with local experts and government stakeholders while strengthening a prevention-oriented approach. Such partnerships bring together diverse perspectives and help ensure that more people are diagnosed early.”
Clinical Perspective on Long-Term Glaucoma Management
Dr Rahul Rathod, Director, Medical Affairs, AbbVie Therapeutics India Pvt. Ltd., emphasised the importance of ongoing monitoring and treatment adherence in glaucoma care.
“Glaucoma management extends well beyond diagnosis. Long-term outcomes depend significantly on consistent monitoring and adherence to treatment. Through our collaboration with Sightsavers India, we support initiatives that bring clinical insights into broader public health discussions. Platforms like these highlight the importance of sustained care and informed decision-making in managing glaucoma effectively.”
Expert Insights and Interactive Discussions
As per the press release, the programme also featured insights from leading clinicians and public health practitioners. Dr Laxman Singh Jhala, Medical Director, Alakh Nayan Mandir Eye Hospital, delivered the keynote address.
Following the keynote, participants engaged in a panel discussion, where healthcare professionals and stakeholders raised questions, shared perspectives, and explored strategies for strengthening glaucoma prevention and management.
The discussion highlighted the importance of integrating glaucoma screening into primary healthcare systems, building the capacity of eye-care providers, and improving patient counselling to encourage long-term treatment adherence.
Screening Initiative Supports Early Identification
The consultation witnessed the participation of 99 attendees, reflecting strong interest from the healthcare community. During the event, approximately 45 individuals underwent glaucoma screening using portable diagnostic tools.
Importantly, the screening initiative enabled the early identification of individuals at potential risk, who were subsequently referred for further medical evaluation and care.
A Continued Commitment to Eye Health
Through their ongoing collaboration, Sightsavers India and AbbVie Therapeutics India Pvt. Ltd. remain committed to making glaucoma a public health priority. By promoting awareness, strengthening screening efforts, and encouraging timely treatment, the partners aim to ensure that more people across India receive early diagnosis and the support needed to preserve their vision for life.