Dr. Padmaja Kumari Rani is a distinguished vitreo-retinal surgeon specializing in diabetic retinopathy (DR) and Teleophthalmology with over 22 years of experience post-National Board-certified fellowship. She currently serves as the Network Associate Director of Teleophthalmology at LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI).

A prolific researcher, she has authored 188 peer-reviewed publications and led key projects, including the SN DREAMS, SMART India project and currently ICMR funded SMART (AI enabled) Diabetic Retinopathy Outcomes and Pathways. Dr. Rani has played a vital role in DR screening programs, optometrist training, and rural eye health initiatives. She has received multiple accolades, including the Nigerian Ophthalmology Society President Lecture Award (2022). She holds faculty positions at the University of Rochester. Her expertise extends to community eye health and AI-driven teleophthalmology solutions.