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VP: Independent opticians remain integral to India’s vision care ecosystem. What opportunities can help them evolve and compete in an increasingly sophisticated market? RP: Independent opticians continue to be an integral part of India's vision care landscape. Their biggest advantage is their deep understanding of local consumers and the trust they have built over many years. Our internal research shows that four out of five consumers look to eye care professionals for information and guidance on visual health. This places an even greater responsibility on practitioners to stay updated on topics such as myopia management and evolving vision care needs. Those who can combine trusted advice, personalised care and consistent consumer experience will continue to thrive in an increasingly competitive market. At ZEISS, we support this evolution through our partnership programs, technology, training and practice-development initiatives. VP: As Tier-II and Tier- III markets become increasingly important, what opportunities do you see for expanding access to quality vision care across India? RP: Tier-II and Tier-III markets represent one of the biggest opportunities to expand quality vision care in India. Rising aspirations, greater awareness and the willingness of local optical entrepreneurs to invest in better technology and capabilities are already transforming these markets. The opportunity now is to support this momentum with the right training, technology and service standards, enabling consumers to access high-quality vision care closer to home. At ZEISS India, around 60% of participants in our partnership programs are located outside the top eight cities, reflecting the growing importance of these markets. VP: As VisionPlus marks its 25th year of connecting and shaping India’s optical industry, what message would you like to share with our readers? RP: Firstly, congratulations to VisionPlus on completing 25 years. This milestone reflects the important role it has played in bringing the optical industry together and creating a platform for learning, knowledge-sharing and dialogue. To your readers, I would simply say that this is an exciting time for the vision care industry. Consumer expectations are evolving, innovation is accelerating and our understanding of long-term visual health continues to deepen. These changes create tremendous opportunities for all of us to elevate the standard of vision care and make a meaningful difference in people's lives. 34 VISION PLUS INDIA EDITION