Venkataramanan Ramasethu

Pursuing Optometry Education with Purpose: Why Clinical Internship in a Tertiary Eye Care Hospital is Indispensable for Future-Ready Optometrists A Forward-Looking Perspective on Optometry Training in India The recent curricular reforms under the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) herald a transformative era for Optometry education in India. The proposed 5-year Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) program, comprising four years of structured academic learning followed by one year of mandatory internship, is a visionary leap toward aligning Optometry education with global standards and contemporary healthcare needs. However, beyond the discourse on program duration lies a critical, non-negotiable pillar of Optometry training—the quality and nature of clinical internship exposure. The internship year is not a mere academic requirement; it is the crucible where knowledge is tested, refined, and transformed into competence. The setting of this internship, therefore...

@ KOC 2025 – Kolkata Optometry Conference at Science City Auditorium Kolkata on 20th April 2025

Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan (24 October 1940 – 25 April 2025), visionary space scientist and former ISRO Chairman. Born in Ernakulam to a family rooted in values, learning, and discipline, his paternal and maternal forefathers hailed from Tamil Nadu and later settled in Kerala. Raised by his maternal grandparents after the early loss of his mother, his childhood was marked by resilience and a passion for knowledge. His pioneering leadership in India's space missions — PSLV, GSLV, INSAT, IRS, Chandrayaan-1 — and his key role in shaping the National Education Policy 2020 will remain etched in the nation’s history. A true architect of India’s space and education landscape. Heartfelt homage and respect. — Venkataramanan Ramasethu 25th April 2025

THE SANKARA NETHRALAYA ACADEMY Admissions Open – 2025 Intake Join TSNA, the academic wing of Sankara Nethralaya, and shape your future in healthcare and management. Offering globally recognized UG & PG programs with hands-on learning and leadership focus. Programs: BBA Healthcare Management | MBA Hospital Management | Master of Optometry | B.Sc. & M.Sc. Medical Lab Technology | MHA Apply now: www.thesnacademy.ac.in | +91 99401 13111 / 044 4908 6000 Venkataramanan Ramasethu April 25, 2025

Rationale and Vision Behind the 5-Year Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) Program Model: A Forward-Looking Perspective The introduction of a 5-year Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) program, comprising 4 years of academic learning and 1 year of structured internship, as outlined in the curriculum guidelines of the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP), represents not merely a revision of duration but a profound leap towards aligning Optometry education in India with global best practices and contemporary healthcare needs. Why the 5-Year Model is the Need of the Hour The Optometry profession stands at a pivotal juncture where the scope of responsibilities extends far beyond mere refraction and basic eye care. Today’s optometrists are expected to be independent healthcare practitioners who contribute meaningfully to the diagnosis, management, and rehabilitation of complex ocular conditions. The curriculum document rightly emphasizes the importance of a robust scienti...

To yield oneself to the gentle workings of Divine Grace… Not with resistance, nor with pride, But with a heart open, grateful, and true. For in such surrender lies the silent strength That leads the soul unfaltering toward The radiant shores of Light, The quiet vastness of Peace, The sweet harmony of Unity, The blissful embrace of Ananda. — inspired by the words of Sri Aurobindo Venkataramanan Ramasethu 24th April 2025

In the silent depths of surrender, where the ego melts and the soul kneels bare, the Mother’s Force descends — a gentle flame, a boundless power, weaving light into the fabric of being. To open fully, to yield without reserve, is to invite Her Grace, where all becomes possible, where the impossible blooms. Venkataramanan Ramasethu 24th April 2025

Attended the Kolkata Optometry Conference (KOC 2025) organized by WBAO at Science City Auditorium, Kolkata, on 20th April 2025. Grateful to Dr. Anuradha Narayanan, Principal, Elite School of Optometry, Chennai & Kolkata, for giving me the opportunity to introduce EIVOC 2025 – Elite International Vision Science and Optometry Conference and invite, on her behalf, the vibrant optometry community of India to participate. Join us at EIVOC 2025, happening from 15th to 17th August 2025 at Chennai Trade Centre, Chennai, India. Know more: eivoc2025.org Venkataramanan Ramasethu 22nd April 2025

Heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community on the passing of Pope Francis. A symbol of peace, a humble reformer, a tireless advocate for the marginalized, and a unifying force among diverse faiths — he stood as a guiding light of moral clarity in a divided world. His loss is felt deeply by all who value compassion, dignity, and the spirit of humanity. Venkataramanan Ramasethu April 21, 2025

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7 A humble servant who mirrored Christ in word and deed, Pope Francis now beholds the glory of the Risen Lord. His life was a living homily of love, mercy, and truth. In Heaven’s light, his legacy continues to guide the Church. Venkataramanan Ramasethu April 21, 2025

Honoured to represent Sankara Nethralaya and Elite School of Optometry, Kolkata at the Kolkata Optometry Conference (KOC) 2025, organized by the West Bengal Association of Optometrists (WBAO) on 20th April at Science City. A platform that celebrated learning, collaboration, and excellence in optometry. Venkataramanan Ramasethu 21st April 2025

Remembering G. Subramania Iyer Upholder of Courage, Integrity, and Reform Today, as we pause to remember G. Subramania Iyer, we do so with deep respect and gratitude. More than a pioneering journalist, he was a man of profound integrity whose ideas, ideals, and actions helped shape the moral and intellectual direction of modern India. His work continues to influence generations, urging us toward a more thoughtful, just, and enlightened society. At a time when India lay shackled under colonial rule, Subramania Iyer emerged as a voice of clarity and resistance. Through the founding of The Hindu and Swadesamitran, he transformed the press into a platform for awakening national consciousness. His writings went beyond mere reportage—they challenged oppression, questioned authority, and ignited conversations that stirred the minds of his readers. He brought honesty, courage, and responsibility into journalism, setting a standard that many still look up to. Subramania Iyer believe...

“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities…” –  Isaiah 53:5 O'er Calv’ry’s hill, where shadows fall, And mercy weeps through crimson pall, We lift our eyes with hearts contrite, To Love that dawned through darkest night. He bore our sin, our grief, our shame, The spotless Lamb, the scorned, the slain; Yet from His wounds flowed grace untold, A balm for hearts grown faint and cold. So here we kneel in silent awe, By sacred wounds and Heaven’s law, To learn of peace, of love made plain— Through thorn and cross, through blood and pain. –  Venkataramanan Ramasethu 18th April 2025

Why is our language called ‘Tamizh’? Ki. Va. Jagannathan (Ki. Va. Ja.), the legendary Tamil scholar and literary visionary, once found himself in the divine presence of Periyava, when a question was posed that momentarily stilled his erudition: “Why is our language called ‘Tamizh’?” Taken aback, Ki. Va. Ja. admitted with humility that he had never contemplated that question deeply. He reflected, “If someone were to ask me about the greatness of Tamizh, I could speak for hours—on its antiquity, its grammar, its literature, its uniqueness among world languages. But why it is called ‘Tamizh’—I do not know.” With characteristic grace, Periyava smiled and said: “This is merely my thought—neither confirmed by scholars nor inscribed in any linguistic doctrine. But to me, the answer lies in one letter: ‘ழ’ (zha).” He then proceeded, in that meditative rhythm only saints possess, to list words that hold this unique sound, each word soaked in beauty and depth: மழலை (mazhalai) – the babble of a c...

85th Sree Seetha Kalyana Mahotsavam From 19th to 21st April 2025 at South Indian Association, Shibpur, Howrah. Bhajans by Ved Bhavan Bhajan Samaj, Kolkata will uplift the soul. Venkataramanan Ramasethu 17.04.2025

Applications are now open for the External Internship 2025–2026 at Elite School of Optometry, Kolkata. Follow the link to submit your application form today. https://forms.gle/3jXj7bmwnL8Ejvwc6

Shubho Nobo Borsho! Wishing everyone peace, joy, and prosperity this Poila Baisakh. May the new year bring hope, harmony, and fresh beginnings! — Venkataramanan Ramasethu 15th April 2025

Wishes for a joyous and prosperous Tamil New Year Venkataramanan Ramasethu 14th April 2025

Charak Puja and Neel Sasthi honour the sacred union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, embodying the harmonious balance of masculine and feminine energies in the universe. These vibrant festivals seek divine blessings for an abundant harvest, prosperity, and the overall well-being of all. Venkataramanan Ramasethu 13th April 2025

To teach is to trust, to nurture, and to uplift. Believing in others is the foundation of every great lesson. Venkataramanan Ramasethu 12th April 2025

Elite School of Optometry Admissions 2025–2026 Chennai Campus [B.Optom & M.Optom] Programs offered in collaboration with SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur. Apply online: www.sastra.edu/sastraapplication Also accessible via www.eso.sankaranethralaya.org Kolkata Campus [B.Optom] Program offered in collaboration with MAKAUT University, West Bengal. Apply online: www.snesokolkata.org/admission.html Also accessible via www.snesokolkata.org Contact – ESO Kolkata DJ 16, Action Area 1D, New Town, Rajarhat, Kolkata – 700156 Phone: 033-66576018 / 8981381199 Email: sneso_kolkata@snmail.org

May the boundless strength and devotion of Lord Hanuman inspire us to walk the path of righteousness and courage. Wishing everyone a blessed Hanuman Jayanti! Venkataramanan Ramasethu 12th April 2025

https://thewire.in/media/mitali-mukherjee-named-new-director-of-reuters-institute-for-the-study-of-journalism

Journalist Mitali Mukherjee has been appointed as the new director of the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism. With over 20 years of experience in political economy journalism across television, print, and digital platforms in India, Mukherjee previously served as the consulting business editor at The Wire and hosted a widely followed YouTube show. She later moved to the University of Oxford in the UK, where the Reuters Institute is located. Having served as the acting director since October 2024, Mukherjee was chosen through an open selection process that concluded in late March. She takes over the role from Rasmus Nielsen. Venkataramanan Ramasethu April 11, 2025

Wishing peace, non-violence, and inner harmony to all on this auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti. May Lord Mahavir’s teachings guide us toward truth and compassion. – Venkataramanan Ramasethu 10th April 2025

Are you ready to take your knowledge and expertise to the next level? We're excited to invite you to an exclusive conversation with Dr. Anuradha N to learn more about the upcoming EIVOC 2025 (ESO’s International Vision science and Optometry Conference) and the incredible perks of registering for this event! Don't miss the chance to gain valuable insights directly from Dr. Anuradha N, who will give you an insider's look at the conference’s exciting agenda and why attending could be a game-changer for your career! 📅 Date: 11th April, Friday ⏰ Time: 3:00-4:00pm 🔗 Join Here:  https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82750029915?pwd=ASzRCWSRcJL8IL1VSYmN3beFxQkDil.1 This is an excellent opportunity to ask any questions and get a sneak peek into what promises to be an enriching experience at EIVOC. We look forward to having you join us!

Health is a universal right, not a privilege. Let’s stand together for a healthier world. Venkataramanan Ramasethu 7 April 2025

Wishing you all a blessed Ram Navami filled with the light of dharma and strength of Lord Ram. May his ideals inspire our journey today and always. Venkataramanan Ramasethu 06 April 2025

Tamil was my first lullaby — the pulse of my being. Bengali shaped my path and gave me my identity. Hindi connected me with hearts across India. Kannada, my childhood warmth. Telugu & Malayalam — early companions in college & career. Every language I met wasn’t just a medium — it was a sacred journey of the soul. Venkataramanan Ramasethu 4th April 2025 Kolkata