The third state-level consultation in the ongoing collaborative campaign between Sightsavers India and AbbVie India was held in Bhopal. The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including ophthalmologists, senior optometrists, public health professionals, civil society representatives, social scientists, and journalists.

The objectives of the campaign are to raise awareness about glaucoma, its risk factors, and the importance of regular eye check-ups.

Rajendra Shukla, Deputy Chief Minister, Govt of Madhya Pradesh, said, "The well-being of the people of Madhya Pradesh is our top priority, and good vision plays a crucial role in ensuring a healthy and productive life. The government is fully committed to supporting initiatives like this, which focus on early detection and prevention of glaucoma.”

Narendra Shivaji Patel, Minister of State - Public Health and Medical Education, Madhya Pradesh, stated, "Public health and education are critical pillars for the progress of our state, and ensuring access to essential healthcare services, like eye care, is a key priority. Glaucoma, if left undiagnosed, can have devastating consequences, but with the right awareness and timely interventions, we can prevent this.

The consultation commenced with a warm welcome by Minakshi Patel, Project Officer, Madhya Pradesh, Sightsavers India.

Prasannakumar PN, Senior Director, Programmes, Sightsavers India, highlighted: “At Sightsavers India, our mission is to bridge this gap by bringing quality eye care to the forefront, especially for those who lack access to essential services. This consultation is an important opportunity to bring together experts, policymakers, and healthcare providers to share insights, strengthen our strategies, and prevent avoidable blindness.”

Suresh Pattathil, Managing Director, AbbVie India, via email stated, "At AbbVie, we are firmly committed to advancing healthcare innovation through meaningful collaboration. Our partnership with Sightsavers India underscores our dedication to addressing critical eye health challenges, such as glaucoma, which frequently goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage. Through this collaboration, we seek to enhance accessibility to eye care, promote early diagnosis, and ensure that individuals across India, particularly those in underrepresented communities, receive the care they need.”

Dr. B.K. Jain, Director and Trustee, Shri. Sadhguru Seva Sangh Trust and Guest of Honour, remarked, "In the realm of healthcare, prevention and early intervention are paramount. This collaboration between Sightsavers India and AbbVie India is a commendable initiative that not only brings much-needed attention to glaucoma but also provides tangible solutions through screenings and education.”

Dr Suneeta Dubey, Medical Director and Director of Glaucoma Services, Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, New Delhi, and Keynote Speaker, said, "Glaucoma is a complex and often overlooked condition, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, we can prevent blindness and significantly improve patient's quality of life. This consultation is an important platform for driving awareness.”