Tribute to Dr. R. “Para” Pararajasegaram, 1928 – 2020

With deep sadness, Aravind notes the passing of Dr. Pararajasegaram, a longtime friend and mentor to Aravind and an international leader in the prevention of blindness.  Dr. Para was a founding member, and later, President of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) from 1994 to 1999.  Dr. Parajasegaram was on the board of numerous NGO’s and received multiple awards for his service, including the International Prevention of Blindness award of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Distinguished Service Award of the IAPB.

Dr. Para was known for his dedication to community ophthamology, always keeping the patient at the center and balancing the heart and hand – compassion and skills.  He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to guide eye care around the world.