Retina India is a non-profit organization consisting of retinal patients, family members, doctors, researchers, and mobility experts. The organization's mission is to increase awareness of retinal diseases and empower those affected. Current objectives include conducting medical research in India, providing social and medical support services to patients, and advocating for inclusive education opportunities for the visually impaired.

1. Consists of Retinal patients & their family members Retina doctors & researchers Counselors & mobility experts etc. Volunteers Registered trust Has 80G IT Exemption National entity Website: www.retinaindia.org

2. Visual impairment in our country 24 million blind people in our country Largest in the world 52 million visually impaired in the country If no change in the trend, number of blind people would increase to 31.6 million in 2020

3. Visual impairment ‘ Preventable ’ or ‘ Avoidable ’ blindness Focus on cataract, cornea, etc. Retinal problems are on the increase Lack of awareness Actual prevalence not available New treatments coming in Need to reach out to patients … RETINA INDIA fills the void

4. Retina India Mission: To increase awareness of retinal diseases & the people who get affected by them & to induce increased research efforts into treatment for such diseases Vision: We wish to empower patients and families of patients with retinal ailments, and help them make a significant contribution to their own lives, and to the lives of people around them. Current Objectives: (1) Medical (2) Medico-Social (3) Social

5. 1. Medical Bring validated clinical trials from abroad into India Through the Scientific Advisory Board Induce funded research & development in India RI will invite applications & fund the chosen ones National Retinal Diseases Registry Keep track of patients for clinical trials Match the patient to the correct treatment

6. 2. Medico-Social Information website Helpline that allows callers to get information & counseling Being developed Hospital OutReach Program Volunteers reaching out to institutions & clinics to speak with doctors and patients National Advocacy Round Table Bringing all stakeholders together to discuss issues Suggest solutions First meeting held in Hyderabad – addressed by Dr G N Rao Next meeting in Delhi

7. 3. Social National Scribes & Readers project Providing connectivity between the blind who need help for writing an exam or reading, with volunteers Supported by IBM (software/email) and Vodaphone (SMS) Inclusive Education Inducing visually challenged children to study in mainstream schools

8. Scientific Advisory Board Consists of all leading retina specialists in the country Currently discussing MOU with VRSI and AIOS Ex-officio representation in SAB SAB sets the scientific agenda International Advisory Board Leading experts support RI activities

9. Financial help for the needy Retina India supports economically challenged patients for their treatment costs Treatment from any doctor or institute, anywhere in the country Points to remember Only for retinal treatment Laser, Injection or surgery Costs meant only for treatment Support only for the first surgery Money paid directly to the institution More details on the website (retinaindia.org)