Lotus College of Optometry was established in 2000, marking 2025 as its silver anniversary. The College continues to celebrate its proud legacy of organising a scientific session in the memory of its beloved founder Late Shree Naval P. Baliwalla. This year, the 16th Shree Naval P Baliwalla Scientific session was organised on February 22, 2025, along with the 25th anniversary celebrations.
Over 30 scientific abstracts were received and based on a laid criterion, the faculty team selected 6 papers for oral presentation along with four case presentations. 14 of the abstracts were selected for presentation in the form of scientific posters. Dr. Pancham Kulkarni, PhD and Associate Professor Lotus College of Optometry, Dr Deepak Garg, a pediatric ophthalmologist from Mumbai and Ms Jinal Zaveri, alumni of Lotus College and an established private practitioner, helped judge the scientific sessions.
The event commenced after invoking the blessings of Lord Ganesh, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the dignitaries, Mrs Anahita Dastur, Dr Pancham Kulkarni, Mrs Parvathi Venkateshwaran, an ethics committee member, and Dr Anita Arvind.
Dr Anitha Arvind, Associate Professor and head of the department, the School of Healthcare and Allied Sciences from the prestigious G.D.Goenka University, Gurugram delivered the keynote address. Dr. Anitha is also one of the founding members of the team that helped establish the College in 1999-2000. She inspired young interns and students to practice Optometry and provide quality eye and vision care services.
The students presented their research work and interesting cases seen in the outpatient department of Lotus Eye Hospital and received constructive comments and appreciation from all the judges. Ms. Shabnam Shaik and Ms.Nida Khan were awarded for best presentation in the poster and oral paper categories with a special mention for Mr. Om Gawde.
The 25th-anniversary celebrations included a presentation of the journey of the College, its achievements and challenges. The management team and the Trustees of the Optometric Education Society have over the years emerged as thought leaders for Optometry as a profession in India. The college always led by example with outstanding quality of graduates and phenomenal contributions to community eye care services. Besides this, the founding team, including Dr Vivek Mendonsa and Ms Trupti Dave, also launched the new logo for Lotus College of Optometry.
The day culminated with cultural dances and songs in which students from all the batches participated. Hosting a great event is a contribution of the faculty and staff of the hospital and college.
