Archive · 10 Sep 2026
Social Paathshala Helps 10,000 Seniors Learn Digital Tools
The Social Paathshala teaches older people how to use modern technology.
It was started by Mahima Bhalotia in 2020.
More than 10,000 seniors have taken part in its classes.
They learn about phones, WhatsApp, online payments and staying safe online.
They also learn newer tools such as ChatGPT and Meta AI.
Some students use technology to plan trips, identify birds or travel through airports.
Classes move slowly and include practice, recordings and extra help.
The lessons also help seniors make friends and feel more independent.
The program shows that people can keep learning at any age.
The Social Paathshala has trained more than 10,000 adults aged 50 and above since launching in August 2020.
Founder Mahima Bhalotia began the initiative after recognizing that older adults needed help with basic digital tasks.
Classes cover WhatsApp, smartphones, digital payments, online safety, Google tools, DigiYatra and artificial intelligence.
Learners use tools such as Meta AI, ChatGPT and Google Lens for travel planning, emails, recipes and nature walks.
The online classes combine demonstrations, repetition, recordings and personal support to build seniors’ confidence and independence.
- Who
- Mahima Bhalotia, The Social Paathshala and more than 10,000 older learners, including Maya Maker and Dr Vineeta Kaushik.
- What
- An online program is teaching seniors digital skills ranging from WhatsApp and online payments to artificial intelligence.
- When
- The Social Paathshala launched in August 2020 and has grown over six years.
- Where
- The classes take place online through Zoom and serve learners in India and multiple countries.
- Why
- The initiative aims to help older adults use technology independently, safely and confidently instead of relying on others.
- Program
- The Social Paathshala
- Founder
- Mahima Bhalotia
- Launch date
- August 2020
- Learners trained
- More than 10,000 adults aged 50 and above
- Class format
- Online Zoom groups of about 15–20 learners
- Class length
- Approximately 75–90 minutes, followed by a recap
- Topics
- Smartphones, WhatsApp, digital payments, online safety, Google tools, DigiYatra and AI