TOS-VAP-SRM Postgraduate Program at SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre

Tambaram Ophthalmic Society – Vizhi Ariviyal Padasaalai – SRM (TOS – VAP – SRM), a Postgraduate Update Program on Cornea and Refractive Surgery, was successfully held at SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre on Sunday, 15th June 2025. The program, awarded TNMC credit points by the Tamil Nadu Medical Council, was organised to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the Tambaram Ophthalmic Society (TOS), an affiliate of the Tamil Nadu Ophthalmic Association (TNOA).

The event commenced with an inaugural ceremony graced by distinguished dignitaries. Dr. C. Venkatesan, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at SRM, welcomed the gathering, followed by the Presidential Address by Dr. K. Kavithalakshmi and the Secretary’s Report by Dr. M. Soundaram, Secretary, TOS. The Chief Guest, Dr. T. Nirmal Fredrick, MD of Nirmals Eye Hospital and Past President of TNOA, delivered an inspiring address emphasising the importance of clinical excellence and knowledge sharing.

Pro Vice-Chancellor & Dean (Medical and Health Sciences), Dr. Nitin M Nagarkar, and Medical Superintendent Dr. R. Venkatraman were the Guests of Honour. They highlighted the significance of continued medical education and skill enhancement in ophthalmology.

A special highlight of the event was the release of a commemorative edition of TOSVISION, the official newsletter of the Tambaram Ophthalmic Society. The first copy was released by the Chief Guest and received by Dr. Nagarkar. The issue, curated by Dr. Rachula Daniel, Founder Secretary and Past President of TOS, featured original research articles, case studies, and clinical insights from across the field.

The academic sessions, held from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the SRM Hospital Seminar Hall, included:

1. Expert Talks
Leading ophthalmologists shared the latest advancements in the diagnosis and management of corneal diseases and refractive surgeries. Esteemed speakers included:
~ Dr. Namitha Bhuvaneshwari, HOD, MMC & RI
~ Dr. D. Chandrasekhar, Consultant, Aravind Eye Hospital, Coimbatore
~ Dr. Kalpana Suresh, MD, Kalpana Eye Care
~ Dr. Sharmila Devi, Associate Professor, Vellore Medical College
~ Dr. K. Kavithalakshmi, MD Dr. K.K Surgical & Pediatric Centre, Tambaram
~ Dr. Uma Devi, Refractive Surgeon, Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital, Tambaram

2. Poster & Podium Presentations
Postgraduate students from SRM and other institutions showcased their research. Winners were recognised with prizes, and all participants received certificates.

3. Quiz Competition
An interactive quiz, conducted by Dr. M. Soundaram, Dr. T. Vimala, and Dr. Uma Devi, engaged young ophthalmologists in an intellectually challenging contest. Trophies and prizes were distributed to the top teams.

4. Wet-Lab Skill Transfer Workshop
A hands-on workshop on Corneal Trephining and Suturing was conducted by Dr. M. Soundaram and the SRM faculty, with active support from postgraduate students. All registered participants were awarded certificates.

With over 170 registrations, the event stood out as a comprehensive academic initiative that blended expert knowledge-sharing with skill development, contributing significantly to the advancement of ophthalmic education and clinical practice.
The organising team from the SRM Department of Ophthalmology was led by Dr. C. Venkatesan, Professor and Head, and Dr. Lily Daniel, Professor, who served as the Organising Secretaries. Dr. Kalpana R, Assistant Professor, served as the Co-Organising Secretary, while Dr. Naveena M, Assistant Professor, took on the role of Joint Secretary. Dr. Aishwarya T, Assistant Professor, served as the Treasurer. The Organising Committee also included Dr. P. Monisha Maria, Dr. Posa Thanuja, Dr. Praveen J, Dr. Pamdi Jayasree, and Dr. C. Banumathi, along with the dedicated support of the postgraduate team.