Varanasi is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world and is the place where the first documented cataract surgery was performed around 600 BC by the legendary surgeon Sushruta, often hailed as the father of Indian surgery and ophthalmology.

In his seminal text, the Sushruta Samhita, he detailed innovative techniques like “couching,” where a specialized lancet was used to displace the clouded lens into the vitreous cavity, restoring vision to patients without removing the lens entirely — a remarkably advanced extracapsular method for its time.

He described 76 eye conditions, 51 of which required surgical intervention, and emphasized holistic training, including anatomy dissections on cadavers and ethical patient care. Students from far and wide flocked to learn from him, carrying this pioneering knowledge to Southeast Asia, China, the Middle East, and beyond, influencing global ophthalmic practices for millennia.

Fellowship Announcement

ASG Super Speciality Eye Hospital, Varanasi is pleased to announce a comprehensive 3-month Short-Term Fellowship Program in Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

This intensive hands-on training is designed for qualified ophthalmologists seeking to enhance their surgical skills and expertise in advanced cataract procedures and refractive techniques.

Under the guidance of renowned mentor Dr. Pratyush Ranjan, fellows will gain practical experience in a high-volume clinical setting, focusing on cutting-edge surgical methods and patient management.

Program Overview

Duration: 3 months (full-time commitment required).

Venue: ASG Super Speciality Eye Hospital, Varanasi, India – a state-of-the-art facility equipped with modern ophthalmic technology, including advanced phacoemulsification systems, femtosecond lasers, and diagnostic tools for refractive surgery.

Mentor: Dr. Pratyush Ranjan, a distinguished ophthalmologist with extensive experience in cataract and refractive surgery. Dr. Ranjan has performed thousands of successful procedures and is committed to mentoring the next generation of eye care specialists through personalized training and case discussions. (For more information, visit https://asgeyehospital.com/doctor/dr-pratyush-ranjan.)

Focus Areas:

• Oversimplification and premium IOL implantation.
• Refractive procedures such as LASIK, PRK, SMILE, and ICL implantation.
• Posterior capsular complications and subluxated lenses.
• Preoperative assessment, postoperative care, and complication management.
• Surgical planning and follow-up clinics.

   

Fellows will participate in daily surgeries, observe live procedures, and gradually perform supervised operations, depending on their skill level. The program also includes didactic sessions, journal clubs, and case presentations to foster a well-rounded understanding of evidence-based practices.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be registered ophthalmologists (MD/MS/DNB or equivalent) and hold specialist registration in their home country.
• Minimum of 1–2 years of post-qualification experience in ophthalmology, with a keen interest in cataract and refractive surgery.
• Proficiency in English is essential for effective communication during training.
• International applicants are welcome; however, they must ensure compliance with Indian visa regulations for medical training (e.g., obtaining a Medical Visa or relevant permissions).
• For international ophthalmologists, temporary registration with the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India is mandatory to participate in clinical training and patient care activities.

Process for Temporary Registration with NMC

International fellows must obtain temporary registration from the NMC prior to starting the fellowship, as it is required for any hands-on medical training or practice in India.

• The application must be sponsored and submitted through the head of the host institution (ASG Super Speciality Eye Hospital). Direct applications from foreign nationals are not accepted.
• The hospital will assist selected candidates with the sponsorship and submission process upon acceptance into the fellowship.

Steps to Apply for NMC Registration:

1. Eligibility Check: Ensure you are a foreign national enrolled as a medical practitioner in your home country with a valid registration/license. The registration can be permanent or renewable.

2. Submit the following (all documents must be in English or include authenticated English translations if originally in another language):

• Certificate of registration/license from your home country or any other foreign country where you are registered, duly attested.
• Copy of passport (including visa and immigration details if already obtained).
• Medical degree certificates (self-verified).
• Sponsorship certificate from ASG Super Speciality Eye Hospital (provided after fellowship selection).
• Admission letter from the hospital detailing the training schedule.
• 2 recent passport-size photographs.
• Application form (Form for Temporary Registration for Foreign Nationals).

   

3. Submit the application online via the NMC portal (https://www.nmc.org.in/ActivitiWebClient/open/registerftpftc) or as per current guidelines, through the head of the hospital at least 2 months before the scheduled start date of the fellowship.

4. Include a non-refundable fee of INR 5,000 + 18% GST, payable via bank draft in favor of “The Secretary, National Medical Commission,” payable at New Delhi. Note the applicant’s details on the reverse of the draft.

5. Processing and Approval: The NMC reviews the application under Section 34 of the NMC Act or relevant provisions for temporary permission. Approval is granted for the specific duration and purpose of the training (e.g., 3 months for this fellowship).

Additional Notes:

• The temporary registration is for the sole purpose of the postgraduate training/course/fellowship and does not allow independent practice outside the program.
• For the latest guidelines, refer to the NMC website (nmc.org.in), as processes may be updated.
• The hospital’s fellowship coordinator can guide you on any sponsorship-specific requirements.

Application Process

Send the following documents via email to drpratyushranjan@gmail.com:

• Updated CV highlighting surgical experience.
• Copy of medical degree, specialist registration, and any relevant certifications.
• A personal statement (500–800 words) explaining your interest in the fellowship, career goals, and how this program aligns with your professional development.
• Two professional references (contact details of referees).
• A short surgical video (5–10 minutes) demonstrating your cataract surgery skills (e.g., phacoemulsification procedure).

Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; applications are accepted throughout the year, with start dates flexible based on availability (typically quarterly cohorts).

Selection Process:

• Shortlisted candidates will undergo an online interview with Dr. Pratyush Ranjan and the selection committee.
• Surgical video assessment will be a key component.
• Notifications are sent within 2–4 weeks of application submission.
• Limited fellows are admitted per cohort for personalized mentoring.

Benefits and Support

• Stipend: A monthly stipend of INR 50,000 (subject to tax deductions as per Indian government regulations).
• Professional Development: Certification upon successful completion.
• Networking: Opportunity to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team and attend local ophthalmic conferences or workshops (if scheduled during the fellowship).
• Hands-On Experience: Assist/perform 100+ surgeries for real-world exposure.

Important Notes

• Accommodation and Meals: Fellows are responsible for arranging their own stay and food in Varanasi. The hospital can provide recommendations for affordable housing (approx. INR 15,000–25,000/month).
• Visa and Travel: Fellows must handle their own visa applications, travel arrangements, and health insurance. A Medical Visa is typically required.
• Health Requirements: Proof of COVID-19 vaccination and other health clearances may be necessary.
• Attendance: This is a full-time program (Monday–Saturday). No leaves permitted except in emergencies.
• Ethical Standards: All training adheres to the highest ethical and medical standards, with a focus on patient safety and informed consent.

Contact

📞 +91 9807988146
📧 drpratyushranjan@gmail.com

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Written and Verified by:

DR. PRATYUSH RANJAN

MBBS, DOMS, DNB & MAMS

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