The 22nd Annual Conference of the Indian Academy of Geriatrics (GERICON 2025) took place from November 13 to 15 at the Armed Forces Medical College in Pune. During this notable event, Maj Somesh M Kaul, a postgraduate resident in the Department of Community Medicine at AFMC Pune, delivered a standout presentation that garnered him the distinguished Dr. BK Mathur Gold Medal for Best Oral Paper Presentation.
Maj Kaul’s award-winning research paper, titled “Prevalence and Barriers to Digital Health Literacy among the Elderly in an Urban Setting of Western Maharashtra,” sheds light on the significant digital divide impacting senior citizens. The study explores the various challenges that older adults encounter when trying to access digital healthcare platforms. Through his research, Maj Kaul identified key factors that influence digital engagement among the elderly, providing essential insights aimed at promoting digital health inclusion in India’s ageing population.
This recognition not only highlights Maj Kaul’s significant contribution to the field but also showcases the robust research standards and strong academic mentorship at the Armed Forces Medical Services and AFMC Pune. His achievement reinforces the institution’s longstanding tradition of delivering high-impact research in public health and geriatric medicine, reflecting a commitment to advancing healthcare for the elderly in India.
