Minister of PWD (Roads & Bridges) Y Vikheho Swu today launched the All Nagaland Aphuyemi Elders Forum (ANAEF) at Nagaland Senior Citizens Association (NSCA) office premise at Old Civil Secretariat Kohima.
In his address the minister said that the people of Aphuyemi (Pughoboto sub-division) were reaping the fruits of good example set by the forefathers who were first generation Christians of Pughoboto area.
He said the first generation Christians of Pughoboto sub-division were devoted preachers while the second generation elders also did not commit any mistakes. Swu said it was because of their sincerity, devotion, honesty and hard-working nature that the present generation were reaping their fruit.
He urged upon the present generation of the area to continue the good deeds of the forefathers and to make honesty, simplicity and respect for one another the way of life.
He said August month has been significant for the Aphuyemi people as two major organisations – Sumi Aphuyemi Hoho and ANAEF have been constituted. He also asked to work out strategies to give back to the society instead of only demanding from the society.
Further he informed that Pughoboto would soon become a major centre with two new National Highways to pass through the sub-division. In this regard, he called upon the Aphuyemi people scattered in other parts of the state to get back and help in the upliftment of the area.
NSCA president, Dr. S. I. Tushi Ao addressing the gathering as guest of honour congratulated the formation of ANAEF and called upon the elders to adopt healthy life-styles, like avoidance of tobacco and alcohol but to involve in physical fitness, healthy eating, meditation etc.
He said that age, time and lifestyles were gradually changing for which the elders though neglected and abused of their rights were still the pillars and guardians of the society. This was because they have achieved knowledge, wisdom and experience through the passage of time.
He also highlighted different schemes for the older persons, such as Old Age Pension, Annapurna, Old Age Home facilities, travel concessions, health care etc
Advisor ANAEF S. Ghunakha Swu chaired the programme.