Dr. Nandhakumar V Joins Expert Panel on Adolescent Identity at KARPEDICON 2026, Bengaluru

Paediatrics Faculty Serves as Invited Panellist at KARPEDICON 2026

Dr. Nandhakumar V, Associate Professor, Department of Paediatrics, Adichunchanagiri Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS), B.G. Nagara, was an invited panellist at KARPEDICON 2026, the 45th Annual Conference of the Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) Karnataka State Branch. The IAP Karnataka State Branch organised the conference with IAP Bengaluru from 30 October to 1 November 2026 at the NIMHANS Convention Centre, Bengaluru. The conference theme was “AI – Advancing Paediatric Excellence.”

Panel Discussion

On 1 November 2026, from 3:40 to 4:20 pm, Dr. Nandhakumar V took part in a panel on adolescent health titled “Finding Identity: Self-Discovery in the Age of Constant Comparisons.” The other panellists were Dr. Somashekhar A.R., Dr. Gayatri Devi, Dr. Shailesh Patil, Dr. Shalini Agasti and Dr. Nityananda S.K.

The panel discussed:

• how adolescents form their identity in a world of constant social comparison
• how social media and comparison affect adolescents’ self-esteem, self-image and emotional wellbeing
• early warning signs, such as persistent low mood, harsh self-criticism and suicidal thoughts
• healthy daily and digital routines
• the role of paediatricians, parents and teachers in guiding adolescents towards a healthy sense of self

Questions from the audience brought out the practical challenges paediatricians face with adolescent mental health and screen use. The organisers felicitated Dr. Nandhakumar V with a memento.

Outcomes and Relevance

Delegates came away with a clearer understanding of the psychosocial challenges of adolescence and practical ways to support young people. The discussion will feed into teaching MBBS and postgraduate students in the Department of Paediatrics on adolescent health, psychosocial assessment and mental health. It will also support the department’s adolescent-friendly care and its school and community awareness work. The panel contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being).

Conclusion

Being invited to a state-level IAP panel recognises Dr. Nandhakumar V’s expertise in adolescent health and raises AIMS’s academic profile among paediatricians across Karnataka. AIMS congratulates Dr. Nandhakumar V on this contribution to the conversation on adolescent mental wellbeing.