India is home to over 42,000 primary eye care practitioners, in addition to ophthalmologists who provide medical and surgical eye care. Given the sheer volume of practitioners and the growing number of educational institutions offering training in this field, there is an urgent need to establish uniform standards of education and clinical practice. This is crucial to ensure that the profession aligns with global healthcare standards.

To address this critical need, the Optometry Council of India (OCI) was established as a unified, representative, and self-regulatory body for eye care practitioners across the country. The OCI aims to raise the professional stature of eye care in India by setting standards, regulating practice, and facilitating ongoing professional development through continuing education.

Founded in September 2012 under Section 8 of the Companies Act 25A (as a not-for-profit organization), the OCI was formed with the support of the Indian Optometry Federation (IOF) and the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO). It serves as the collective voice of the optometry profession and works to engage constructively with government bodies, educational institutions, and international stakeholders to enhance the quality and accessibility of eye care in India.

In May 2024, the board of the Optometry Council of India (OCI) unanimously agreed to change its name to the Optometry Confederation of India. This change reflects the evolving scope and vision of the organization as it transitions into a dynamic professional body that represents and supports the optometry profession in India more holistically.

The Optometry Confederation of India will function as a professional body with the following key objectives:

• Representation: To represent the interests of optometrists and the optometry profession at national and international platforms.

• Professional Standards: To uphold and promote high standards in optometric education, practice, and ethics.

• Capacity Building: To strengthen the capacity of the optometry workforce through continuous professional development, training, and knowledge sharing.

• Policy Advocacy: To advocate for policies that advance the role of optometry in public health, particularly in addressing avoidable blindness and vision impairment.

• Collaboration and Networking: To foster collaboration among optometrists, institutions, industry partners, and stakeholders to enhance eye care delivery.

• Public Awareness: To raise public awareness about the importance of eye health and the role of optometrists in comprehensive eye care.

• Research and Innovation: To encourage research, innovation, and evidence-based practice in the field of optometry.

• Member Support: To provide support, resources, and opportunities for professional growth and recognition to its members.