From September 25th to 27th, 2023, the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune played host to a virtual conference cum workshop, IMPACT 2023. Organized by the esteemed Medical Journal Armed Forces India (MJAFI), one of India’s oldest multi-specialty research journals, this conference marked a significant milestone. Published under the auspices of AFMC Pune, MJAFI celebrated its 79th publishing volume this year, firmly establishing itself as a well-indexed medical publication. With a commendable citation score of 3.3, it has garnered contributions from researchers worldwide.
The inauguration of this pioneering digital event was conducted online and graced by the presence of Lt Gen Daljit Singh, AVSM, VSM, PHS, Senior Col Comdt, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services. The Director General highlighted the crucial role of mastering the art of medical writing and reviewing, particularly in light of recent guidelines mandating a minimum number of publications for teachers. He also emphasized the importance of embracing online platforms in this digital age.
Maj Gen D Vivekanand, Dean & Deputy Commandant of Armed Forces Medical College, extended a warm welcome to the enthusiastic delegates participating in this novel format. Beyond honing the skills of medical writing and editing, the Deputy Commandant stressed the significance of ethical publishing, cautioning against the pitfalls of predatory journals.
This three-day event featured insights from esteemed faculty members who conducted interactive sessions on contemporary issues in medical publishing. Workshops covering study designs, medical writing, peer review, and biostatistics were conducted to assist budding authors in refining their medical publishing skills. Contemporary challenges such as plagiarism and predatory journals were also addressed.
Approximately 120 delegates from across the country graced the conference, predominantly comprising budding authors, reviewers, and editors poised to contribute to the future of successful medical publishing. The conference’s tagline, “If you can Think it, you can Ink it,” underscored its mission to empower scientists in effectively disseminating their research globally, thereby providing a solid scientific foundation for the advancement of medical practices and policies.
