Puducherry Ophthalmologists Honoured with Chang-Crandall Humanitarian Award 2026

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Two senior ophthalmologists from Puducherry, Dr Haripriya Aravind and Dr R Venkatesh, have been chosen for the Chang-Crandall Humanitarian Award 2026 in recognition of their outstanding contributions to fighting cataract-related blindness. They will be honoured at the ASCRS Foundation conference in Washington DC on April 11, 2026.

The award, created in 2017 through the generosity of David and Victoria Chang, celebrates humanitarian achievements in cataract care. It includes a $100,000 grant, which both doctors have decided to donate back to the Aravind Eye Care System to support its charitable programs.

Exceptional Careers in Eye Care

Dr Haripriya Aravind, head of cataract and intraocular lens (IOL) services, began her career in paediatric ophthalmology before shifting focus to adult cataract surgery. She has worked extensively in high-volume hospitals, prioritizing patient outcomes and efficient surgical processes.

Dr R Venkatesh, the chief medical officer at Aravind, joined the cataract unit after completing his residency in 1997. He has developed significant expertise in manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS), combining quality patient care with training future ophthalmologists.

Commitment to Community Outreach

Dr Venkatesh was instrumental in expanding Aravind’s operations to Puducherry when the centre opened in 2003. After completing a glaucoma fellowship in Madurai, he has spent over twenty years leading outreach programs, providing affordable eye care to underserved communities.

Both doctors have championed surgical models that are cost-effective, high-quality, and scalable hallmarks of the Aravind system. Their work demonstrates a blend of clinical skill, innovation, and social responsibility.

Global Recognition and Impact

The Chang-Crandall Humanitarian Award honors efforts to reduce preventable blindness worldwide, with cataract being the leading cause of vision loss in many low- and middle-income countries. By donating the award money to Aravind, Dr Aravind and Dr Venkatesh aim to expand access to eye care and strengthen sustainable surgical programs.

This award highlights Puducherry’s presence in the global ophthalmology community and underscores India’s leadership in delivering high-quality, affordable eye care. The Washington DC ceremony will bring international attention to the innovative approaches developed in southern India, reinforcing the country’s role in tackling avoidable blindness globally.

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