A Global First in Public Health Innovation
Kerala Unveils Nayanamritham 2.0: AI-Driven Eye Screening: Kerala has once again set a national precedent by launching Nayanamritham 2.0, the world’s first government-led AI-assisted eye screening program. Spearheaded by the Government of Kerala in partnership with health-tech firm Remidio, the initiative harnesses artificial intelligence to screen for chronic eye diseases including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). By integrating AI directly into the public health system, Kerala has made early detection and treatment of vision-threatening conditions more accessible and efficient.
How Nayanamritham 2.0 Enhances Screening Reach and Precision
The initial version of Nayanamritham focused on screening for diabetic retinopathy at Family Health Centres (FHCs). With Nayanamritham 2.0, the scope has widened significantly. AI-powered fundus cameras can now instantly classify eye conditions as referable or non-referable, enabling quicker referrals and targeted interventions. The program has expanded to Community Health Centres (CHCs), Taluk Hospitals, and District Hospitals, drastically improving its reach among the general population.
Pioneering Use of AI in Healthcare Delivery
This initiative positions Kerala as the first public healthcare system globally to deploy AI-based eye screening at scale. By embedding Remidio’s AI algorithms into routine clinical workflows, the program ensures cost-effective and scalable screening for millions. This step is aimed at drastically reducing preventable blindness, particularly among patients with diabetes and aging populations vulnerable to glaucoma and AMD.
Empowering Health Workers, Not Replacing Them
Health officials clarify that the AI technology is designed to assist healthcare professionals, not replace them. Optometrists can now manage routine screenings independently using AI tools, while ophthalmologists can focus on complex cases. This task-shifting boosts the capacity of the public health system without overburdening specialists.
Dr. Bipin Gopal, Deputy Director of Health Services, emphasized that AI is a force multiplier, improving speed, accuracy, and access in public eye care. Anand Sivaraman, CEO of Remidio, echoed this sentiment, highlighting Kerala’s model as a global benchmark for using technology in healthcare.
Setting a Model for Nationwide Replication
Kerala’s Nayanamritham 2.0 is expected to serve as a blueprint for national-level health policy. As non-communicable diseases rise across India, integrating AI into mass screening programs can enhance early diagnosis and reduce long-term healthcare costs. The initiative also strengthens health equity by ensuring that even remote populations receive timely care.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT:
| Aspect | Details |
| Why in News | Kerala launched the world’s first government-led AI-based eye screening program |
| Initiative Name | Nayanamritham 2.0 |
| Launched By | Government of Kerala |
| Tech Partner | Remidio |
| Diseases Covered | Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), Glaucoma, Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) |
| Technology Used | AI-powered fundus cameras |
| Coverage Expanded To | CHCs, Taluk Hospitals, District Hospitals |
| Global Recognition | First public health system to integrate AI for chronic eye disease screening |
| Key Benefit | Early detection, improved access, reduced preventable blindness |
| Expert Comments | AI empowers optometrists and supports ophthalmologists |
