Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth inaugurated India's first International Ophthalmology Research Conference at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi on Saturday, 9 May 2026, marking a milestone in vision science research.
Minister Seth delivered the keynote address at the inaugural session, emphasising the importance of advancing ophthalmological research and vision care innovation across India.
The conference brings together leading ophthalmologists, researchers, and vision science experts from across the globe to share breakthroughs in eye care and disease prevention.
Delegates from multiple countries participate in the two-day conference, featuring research presentations, clinical workshops, and collaborative discussions on ocular health.
The Defence Ministry partnered with leading medical institutions to host this first-of-its-kind international forum dedicated to advancing eye health research in India.
General Upendra Dwivedi (Chief of Army Staff), General Anil Chauhan (Chief of Defence Staff), Air Chief Marshal AP Singh (Chief of Air Staff), and Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi (Chief of Naval Staff) attended the inaugural ceremony alongside Minister Seth.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh joined the three service chiefs and Minister Seth at the inaugural ceremony, underscoring the government's commitment to advancing medical research infrastructure.
The high-level delegation from the Defence Ministry and Armed Forces participated in formal inaugural proceedings, highlighting the strategic importance of medical research collaboration.
General Anil Chauhan and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh flanked Minister Seth during the inaugural event, reinforcing institutional support for vision science advancement.
Minister Sanjay Seth delivered remarks emphasising India's growing role in global ophthalmological research and the need for sustained investment in vision care infrastructure.
In his opening remarks, the minister stressed the importance of collaborative research, technology transfer, and capacity building in addressing vision health challenges across the region.
The inaugural session featured formal proceedings and ceremonial opening of the conference venue, marking the beginning of three days of scientific deliberations and networking.
The three service chiefs and Chief of Defence Staff were present at the inaugural ceremony, signalling institutional commitment to advancing medical research across the Armed Forces.
Minister Seth and General Anil Chauhan jointly presided over the inaugural ceremony, underscoring the Defence Ministry's active role in supporting scientific advancement.
General Anil Chauhan participated in the inaugural proceedings, highlighting the Armed Forces' commitment to medical research excellence and eye health innovation.
Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi (Chief of Naval Staff) joined Minister Seth and General Chauhan at the inaugural event, representing the Indian Navy's support for the conference.
The presence of senior defence officials at the opening ceremony demonstrated the strategic importance of ophthalmological research to India's medical and defence sectors.
The inaugural ceremony brought together civil and military leadership to formally launch the conference and address participants on research priorities and collaborative opportunities.
Minister Sanjay Seth's address focused on India's vision for becoming a global hub for ophthalmological research and eye care innovation.
In his inaugural address, Minister Seth called for cross-border collaboration, knowledge sharing, and joint research initiatives to accelerate breakthroughs in vision science.
Delegates from multiple nations listened to Minister Seth's vision for leveraging India's medical expertise to address global eye health challenges.
The conference is expected to host keynote speakers, research paper presentations, and interactive sessions on cutting-edge developments in ophthalmology and vision care.
General Upendra Dwivedi and Air Chief Marshal AP Singh engaged in discussions during the inaugural event, reflecting inter-service collaboration on medical research initiatives.
The complete leadership team from the Defence Ministry and all three service commands assembled for the inaugural ceremony, emphasising the strategic significance of the conference.
The unified presence of civil and military leadership at the Manekshaw Centre underscored India's commitment to advancing medical science through institutional collaboration.
The inaugural gathering featured formal ceremonial proceedings, ribbon cutting, and opening remarks from senior defence officials, setting the tone for the multi-day conference.
The four senior commanders representing Army, Navy, Air Force, and Defence Staff attended the inaugural event, demonstrating tri-service commitment to medical research excellence.
Minister Seth and General Chauhan posed together during the inaugural ceremony, symbolising the Defence Ministry's institutional backing for the international research initiative.