Technology-Driven Innovations Reshape India’s Eye Care Ecosystem

India’s eye care sector is undergoing a major transformation, led by precision-led cataract surgery and advanced myopia management solutions. According to Dr Vikas Jain, group chief operating officer of ASG Eye Hospital, innovations such as robotic-assisted cataract surgery, laser-based procedures, and specialised defocus lenses are improving accuracy, safety, and long-term visual outcomes.

Organised eye-care networks are expanding into Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, improving access to standardised, specialist-led care. Government programmes such as Kerala’s Nayanamritham 2.0 are also playing a key role, using AI-enabled retinal cameras in rural centres to screen for diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, referring only critical cases to specialists.

Rising screen time has driven a surge in childhood myopia, prompting a shift from basic correction to active myopia control using low-dose atropine and defocus lenses. Meanwhile, demand for lifestyle-focused cataract solutions, including EDOF and trifocal lenses, is growing rapidly. Looking ahead to 2026, technology is expected to become central to diagnosis, treatment, and remote monitoring in eye care.

03-01-2026