Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) has launched India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven community screening programme for Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), a leading cause of preventable blindness among people with diabetes. The programme was inaugurated at the Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi, in collaboration with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), particularly the Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, and the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
At the core of the initiative is ‘MadhuNetrAI’, an AI-based digital platform developed by AIIMS. The system analyses retinal images captured using handheld fundus cameras and enables early detection, grading and triage of diabetic retinopathy at the community level, even in the absence of specialist ophthalmologists.
During the pilot phase, the programme will be implemented across seven locations — Pune, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Dharamshala, Gaya, Jorhat and Kochi — representing diverse geographic and demographic settings. Medical officers and healthcare staff will be trained to conduct screenings, ensuring wider outreach, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
Officials said the initiative aims to address the growing burden of diabetes-related vision loss by enabling early diagnosis and timely referral, thereby significantly reducing the risk of blindness. Data generated through the AI platform will also support evidence-based planning and strengthen national eye-health surveillance. The launch marks a significant step in integrating artificial intelligence with public health delivery, reinforcing India’s commitment to leveraging digital innovation for accessible, affordable and preventive healthcare.