OBJECTIVES: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in India. A clear understanding of the AMD burden in India is essential to meet future demands for eye health care. The current analysis aims to evaluate the prevalence of AMD in India through a systematic review of published peer-reviewed studies. METHODS: Observational studies reporting the prevalence of AMD patients in India were retrieved from an electronic literature search in PubMed, Cochrane and EMBASE using the terms age-related macular degeneration, prevalence, and India. Search limits applied included articles in English, in human adults, and published since the year 2004. Two researchers independently extracted the data along with critical appraisal of the studies. Descriptive statistics was performed for comparable outcomes. RESULTS: A total of seven studies met the inclusion criteria. The overall prevalence of AMD in India ranges from 1.4% to 3.1%. The prevalence was lowest in West India (1.4%) and highest in South India (3.1%). We found a higher prevalence of early AMD than late AMD (2.3% vs. 0.6%). AMD was more prevalent in rural areas than in urban (2.3% vs.2.1%) and in females than males (2.5% vs. 1.9%). The most important demographic factor affecting the prevalence of AMD in India appears to be the age (>65 years). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of AMD in India has been increasing over the years. It is an emerging challenge for eye care and public health professionals in India. Further studies in Indian population are warranted to investigate the epidemiological patterns of specific AMD subtypes.