National Optometry Conference 2024: A Milestone Event in Gorakhpur

The Optometrist Welfare Society, Uttar Pradesh, under the aegis of the Indian Optometry Federation (IOF) and supported by the Foundation of Optometrist & Orthoptist Research Development Education Association of India (FOOREA), successfully organized the 1st National Optometry Conference and Workshop on December 22, 2024, in Gorakhpur. This pioneering event, titled "Optometry Sangam Gorakhpur 2024," provided a pivotal platform for professionals to collaborate, exchange ideas, and celebrate advancements in optometry and eye care services nationwide.

A Unifying Vision

With the theme "Advancing Optometry in Global Eye Care," the conference focused on the growing importance of optometry in addressing global eye care challenges. It emphasized innovative approaches and the evolving role of optometrists in healthcare systems.

Broad Participation Across Sectors

The conference witnessed a remarkable turnout of over 500 attendees, including:

Renowned surgeons, researchers, and educators
Practicing optometrists and allied healthcare professionals
Dynamic students and scholars from leading educational institutions.

This diverse representation made the event a landmark for interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge dissemination.

Keynote Highlights

Several esteemed speakers delivered compelling keynote addresses, inspiring participants to adopt innovative practices:

Dr. Sanjay K. Mishra (AIIMS), Patron of the association, highlighted the societal importance of optometrists and their growing influence in healthcare.
Dr. Navneet Sharma (HoD, Mohali Chandigarh Institute) underlined the need for continuous learning to improve societal health outcomes.
Dr. Anuja R. Singh (Former Principal, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai) urged the adoption of cutting-edge techniques to elevate optometry standards.

Additional impactful sessions were delivered by:

Dr. Mahendra Singh (LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad)
Dr. Arnab Banerjee (Sankara Nethralaya, Kolkata)
Dr. Balmukund, Dr. Aditya Tripathi, Dr. Vartika Srivastava, Dr. Naresh Ahuja, and Mr. Vikas Chaturvedi

Their insights seamlessly integrated traditional methodologies with modern advancements, providing actionable strategies for attendees.

Celebrating Excellence

The conference recognized and honored top-performing students and researchers from participating institutions, encouraging a culture of academic and professional excellence.

Impactful Goals

The event sought to:

Reinforce the foundation of optometry as a thriving profession in India.
Enhance the quality of eye care services through collaboration.
Promote a service-oriented mindset within the optometry community.

Guest Inspiration

Dr. Ashutosh Shukla (HoD, Sankara Eye Hospital, Gorakhpur) delivered an inspiring address that emphasized the transformative role of optometrists in healthcare and their potential to improve societal well-being.

Organizing Committee: The Pillars of Success

The conference's resounding success was made possible by the dedicated efforts of the
organizing team:

Organizing Chairman: Mr. Ajay Srivastava
President: Dr. V.K. Rai
Conference Chairman: Mr. Sandeep Kanojia
Organizing Secretary: Dr. Dev B. Pandey

The efforts of the team, supported by Ms. Alka Srivastava, Mr. Mustaq Alam, Mr. Pranav Tripathi, Mr. Rajkumar Kanojia, and Mr. Anurag Tripathi, ensured the event's seamless execution.

In conclusion, the 1st National Optometry Conference and Workshop was a milestone in the Indian optometry landscape. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and a service-oriented approach, it set the stage for future advancements in eye care. The conference underscored the profession’s commitment to enhancing lives and delivering excellence in vision care. The conference was widely covered by the print, electronic, and social media.