The neophyte….GJCSRO

It gives me great pleasure to present before you, this inaugural issue of the Global Journal of Cataract Surgery and Research in Ophthalmology (GJCSRO), the official journal of the International Society of Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgeons (ISMSICS).

In an era where publishing is becoming necessary to flourish, one needs to be wary of the predators lurking around which can rob one from the credit and coverage, a genuine research deserves. Many healthcare-related decisions are based on the authenticity and validity of published scientific content; hence, it is imperative that good research reaches good journals. Articles in predatory journals may not only affect their scientific worthiness but also adversely influence healthcare decisions. It is vital therefore to carefully scrutinise the place or platform of article submission, and all red flags which arouse suspicion towards a predatory approach should be analysed with care.^[1] The other end of the research and publishing spectrum is where meritorious research and good theses stay unpublished mainly due to the non-availability of sufficient authentic peer-reviewed non-specialised journals in India and the fear of rejection among researchers. This is specially heartbreaking in this COVID era when extensive research has taken place all over the world in the field of ophthalmology.

GJCSRO aims to provide budding and experienced researchers across the globe a genuine and transparent platform to submit their research work and disseminate their ideas and innovations to the world. GJCSRO currently includes review articles, original articles, case series, case reports, invited educational articles of value to trainees and general ophthalmologists, and letters to the editor. This peer-reviewed journal will be published quarterly with an ‘open-access’ policy. The print copy of the journal will be distributed free of cost to ISMSICS members on request. Others may obtain a copy through a subscription.

A concern to many researchers, especially medical teachers, before the submission, is the indexing of the journal. Indexing is a slow and gradual process that happens with the regularity and quality of the journal, which we at GJCSRO, strongly believe shall happen with your support. We aim to get this journal indexed in as many indexing systems as possible, including those recognised by the National Medical Council.^[2]

I look forward to your support in the growth and recognition of GJCSRO by contributing your valuable research to it.