At its landmark 10th edition in Bengaluru, Nethradhama-led global forum blends surgical mastery, cutting-edge technology, and a vision for accessible eye care
Bengaluru, NFAPost: India’s growing stature as a global hub for advanced eye care was on full display as Phaco Festival 2026, the 10th edition of one of the country’s most influential ophthalmology conferences, opened in Bengaluru. Hosted by Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital under the aegis of the Karnataka Ophthalmology Society (KOS) and the Bangalore Ophthalmology Society (BOS), the three-day event reaffirmed India’s leadership in cataract and refractive eye surgery.
The conference was inaugurated by Dr. C. N. Manjunath, Member of Parliament, Bengaluru Rural, and former Director of the Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, who highlighted the critical role of knowledge platforms in strengthening India’s healthcare ecosystem. The event is being held at the Conrad Bengaluru from January 16 to 18.
A Decade of Learning, Collaboration, and Surgical Excellence
Over the years, Phaco Festival has evolved from a focused academic meet into a globally respected knowledge exchange platform. This year’s edition, themed “The Art and Science of Ophthalmic Practice,” underscores the convergence of clinical judgment, technological innovation, and evidence-based medicine in delivering safe, high-quality vision care.
More than a thousand ophthalmologists, surgeons, researchers, and medical technology experts from over 10 countries are participating, engaging in scientific sessions, live surgical discussions, expert panels, and immersive hands-on training.
India on the Global Ophthalmology Map
In his inaugural address, Dr. Manjunath emphasised the importance of continuous professional learning in a rapidly evolving medical landscape.
“There is a strong need for more platforms like Phaco Festival that enable continuous learning and meaningful collaboration with global experts,” he said. “Such forums help clinicians stay aligned with international best practices and emerging technologies. As India strengthens its healthcare ecosystem, initiatives like these will play a vital role in positioning the country as a global hub for medical education, innovation, and high-quality patient care.”
Innovation Takes Centre Stage
A major draw at Phaco Festival 2026 is its expansive technology showcase, featuring next-generation devices and AI-enabled tools designed to enhance surgical precision and patient safety. Highlights include the launch and demonstration of advanced platforms such as the ZEISS ARTEVO 850 Digital 3D Microscope, the EVA Nexus Phaco-Vitrectomy System, and the VisuMax 800 for SMILE procedures.
Femtosecond laser systems like the Ziemer Neo Z8 with Supra, alongside premium intraocular lenses including advanced toric and EDOF lenses, reflect how data-driven and intelligent technologies are reshaping outcomes in cataract and refractive surgery.
Recognising Global Excellence
The conference also serves as a मंच to honour outstanding contributions to ophthalmology. At this year’s awards ceremony, Prof. Dr. Michael Knorz of Germany will receive the prestigious KR Murthy Oration Award, while Dr. Ruth Lapid-Gortzak of Amsterdam will be conferred the Gold Medal, recognising their global leadership and lasting impact on ophthalmic practice.
A Vision Anchored in Safe, Practical Learning
Reflecting on the festival’s journey and philosophy, Dr. Sri Ganesh, Founder, Chairman and Managing Director of Nethradhama, and Organising Chairman of Phaco Festival, said the focus has always been on meaningful, practice-changing education.
“Phaco Festival is about strengthening standards of eye care through evidence-based learning, continuous skill development, and the safe adoption of new technologies,” he said. “It has grown into a global platform where ophthalmologists learn from one another and consistently raise the bar for surgical quality and patient safety.”
Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Supriya Sri Ganesh, Executive Director of Nethradhama and Organising Secretary of Phaco Festival, highlighted the importance of translating innovation into real-world impact.
“Our aim is to ensure that innovation ultimately leads to safer procedures and better vision care for patients,” she noted. “The strong participation from both Indian and international faculty reflects the relevance and credibility that Phaco Festival has built over the years.”
Shaping the Next Chapter of Eye Care
With packed halls, live surgical demonstrations, expert-led discussions on artificial intelligence in ophthalmology, and focused sessions for young surgeons, Phaco Festival 2026 continues to reinforce its position as India’s premier ophthalmology forum.
As the conference progresses, one message is clear: the future of eye care lies not just in advanced machines or new lenses, but in thoughtful integration of science, skill, and ethics—an ethos that Phaco Festival has championed for a decade and continues to carry forward.
