A State-level celebration of the International Day of Older Persons 2024 under the theme ‘Ageing with Dignity’ was celebrated at NBCC convention hall, Kohima on October 1.
Special guest, Advisor, Social Welfare, Wangpang Konyak in his address said that he was privileged and humbled to be in the midst of the elders and senior citizens in acknowledging and showing his gratitude to them. He stated that the International Day of Older Persons is not just a celebration for the elderly but to underscore a commitment to their dignity and well-being. In Nagaland, as in many parts of the world, our elderly are the bearers of our culture, the custodians of our traditions, and the living history of our society, he said.
Konyak said ‘Ageing with dignity’ is not a mere slogan, but also a call to action. He said that it requires everyone to look beyond biological aspects and see the wisdom, the stories, and the contributions that define a life well-lived. He opined that we should create an environment where our senior citizens are not just cared for, but celebrated for who they are. He also expressed that the bigger picture on this International Day of Older Persons is about celebrating the contributions of senior citizens to society in general. He stated that every elderly person present has shaped the world in ways big and small. He added that they’ve taught us life’s lessons, instilled values, and provided emotional and physical support that has built our society and therefore we must pledge to return that support, ensuring they live their later years in comfort, respect, and dignity.
He advised that the younger generations to take moments to listen, learn, and engage with our elders as they are the greatest treasure of the family, society and the nation with immense ocean of knowledge, experience and wisdom which serve as a guiding light for the younger generation. He also encouraged all the Senior Citizens of Nagaland especially, those who have much experience, to involve more actively in addressing the various issues faced today, because the wisdom of elderly is precious, time tested and valuable in striving ahead and taking our state forward.
The Advisor urged everyone to commit to policies that reflect today’s theme and advocate for more inclusive public spaces, better healthcare services tailored for the elderly, amenities for their comfort and educational programs that teach respect and understanding across generations and work together to ensure that every older person in Nagaland ages with the dignity they deserve, surrounded by love, respect, and the active participation in our community life.
Meanwhile, Distinguished Senior Citizens Award was presented to Yesonü Veyie and Abeni T.C.K for their outstanding contribution towards the society and the State.
In the programme, Secretary, Social Welfare, Martha R. Ritse delivered the keynote address and Executive Member SCAN & Former Minister, Deo Nukhu spoke on behalf of the Senior Citizens Association, Nagaland.
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MON
Deputy Commissioner of Mon, Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS graced the International Day of Older Persons celebration as the special guest at Mon.
Speaking on the occasion, he said the day was celebrated to recognise and appreciate the contributions made by the older persons. Sharing on the theme, he encouraged the gathering to bring up every child in such a way to show love and respect to the older people. He added that older people have the right to live a dignified life. The DC thanked the District Welfare Office Mon, for organising this programme and also the Chief Medical Office for the free health check-up for the older persons.
L. Moba, from Ukha Village and A. PaüwaüJessuhu, of Kongan Village were felicitated by the District Welfare Office with certificate for their contributions to the society. To show love and appreciation, gifts (blankets) were presented to the older people present at the programme.
Medical Officer, Wakching, Dr. Chingyen, shared on health and hygiene. He encouraged the older people to maintain proper diet and hygiene for their health as there are many age related health issues.
T.Yanlem, DOW delivered the welcome address while the programme was chaired by Golang Kheman, Welfare Inspector. A medical camp for older people was organised by the Department of Health & Family Welfare through the Chief Medical Officer, Mon.
ZUNHEBOTO:
The Senior Citizens’ Association Nagaland Zunheboto District Unit in collaboration with Social Welfare Department and Legal Services Authority Zunheboto, Nagaland, celebrated its 17th session for International Day of Older Persons at VDB hall Zunheboto on 1st October, 2024.
During the programme, District Awards were honoured to K. Vikuto Zhimomi and Kughani P. Shohe.
Further, Free Health Screening Camp for senior citizens was organised which was aided by the District Hospital Zunheboto.
PEREN
International Day of Older Persons was celebrated at Ngwualwa Baptist Church Premises under the theme of “Ageing with Dignity” at Peren on 1st October 2024.
Speaking as the special guest, Deputy Commissioner Peren, Hiazu Meru stated that the celebration was to recognise the contributions of the older persons and also to acknowledge the contribution of their knowledge and wisdom. He also encouraged the gathering and called upon them to acknowledge the senior citizens and to rededicate their effort to ensure their well- being. The DC highlighted the importance of strengthening care and support systems for older persons. He also shared on the major global trend reshaping society and life expectancy. Meru also encouraged the villagers to avail any opportunity which comes from the Government.
On behalf of the older persons, the elderly blessings was pronounced by Rev. Kulungsing Meru. Neithonuo Legise chaired the programme while Hingleu Kubuinh, Head GB Ngwalua delivered the vote of thanks..
The programme was organised by Good Samaritan Women Society Ngwualwa Village where they provided gifts to all the older persons present in the programme and also organised a medical check-up programme.
MELURI
International Day of Older Persons was observed under the theme, “Ageing with Dignity” at Meluri village council hall on 1st October 2024.
During the programme, District Welfare Officer, Abi-I Peseyie delivered the introductory remark while Chairperson, Town Council Meluri, Chülekhu Nyusou highlighted on the theme. The Social Welfare Department Phek also conferred the senior citizens award to Khrümatshü and Kajirhü Kajiri in recognition of their contribution to the society.
Organised by the Social welfare Department, Phek, a total of 205 (two hundred & five) elderly people of 75 years and above of Meluri attended the programme. The programme was chaired by CDPO ICDS Meluri, Thorhosie Kajiri.
