Along with the rest of the world, the International Day for Older Persons was observed across the state on October 1 under the global theme, “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspiration, Our Well-being, Our Rights.”
DIMAPUR
Kevijau Women Organization (KWO) observed the day at Kevijau Colony, which was the first such programme organized in the colony.
Addressing the gathering as guest speaker, junior specialist (respiratory medicine, NHAK Kohima), Dr. Noklangkumla Sangtam, highlighted the invaluable contributions of elders to families and communities. Stressing the importance of healthy ageing, she underscored exercise, balanced diet, adequate sleep, emotional well-being, and social connections as key factors for a meaningful life in later years. She reminded the younger generation to honour, respect, and learn from elders, adding that “older persons are not fading lamps, but torches that still light our path.”
DMC sanitation councillor Nzanbeni Humtsoe, in her exhortation, urged the younger generation to value and preserve the struggles, wisdom, and traditions handed down by their forefathers, while Kevijau Colony Council chairman Nokchi Jamir lauded KWO for the initiative and stressed that elders should be regarded as a source of knowledge and guidance.
The programme also featured Bible reading and invocation by pastor Rokothozo Sophie of Kevijau Baptist Church, a welcome note by KWO president A. Obangmenla Jamir, and storytelling sessions by senior citizens I. Mapula Jamir and Neizakei Ltu. Elderly persons were also felicitated during the celebration.
The event concluded with a note of appreciation delivered by KWO executive member Akala. (Staff Reporter)
Meanwhile, Department of Social Welfare Dimapur observed International Day of Older Persons at Purana Bazar Sumi Council Hall, where the department awarded Rev. Dr. Ezamo Murry and Viholi Sema, on the basis of their distinguished contribution to the society.
A short message on the significance of the day was briefed by DPO Dimapur, Keneikesangulie Zumu, thereafter speeches were also delivered by the awardees.
The vote of thanks was proposed by GB, Purana Bazar, Vihoto Yeptho, invocation was offered by APW Chang Baptist Church, Naga United, Nyimangnaro.M.
A total number of 60 senior citizens from various communities attended the programme.
WOKHA
Wokha district commemorated the International Day of Older Persons 2025 at VDB Hall, jointly organized by the Department of Social Welfare and the Senior Citizens Association, Wokha.
The program featured the presentation of district awards to Rev. M. Wosumo Humtsoe and Anymro Lotha in recognition of their contributions to society. EAC Wokha, Sangmou Khiamniungan, who attended as special guest, praised the transformative roles of older persons and their sacrifices in shaping opportunities for younger generations. He urged senior citizens to actively address social issues such as drug and alcohol addiction.
Vice Principal of Mt. Tiyi College, Dr. Khyopenthung Tsopoe, delivered the thematic address, describing senior citizens as lifelong sources of wisdom and inspiration.
He encouraged their continued engagement in societal development.
O. Orhyumomo Lotha expressed gratitude on behalf of the senior citizens and reflected on the association’s objectives. District Welfare Officer C. James Ezung gave the welcome address, and the programme was chaired by N. Renchio.
The event reaffirmed the vital role of older persons in building inclusive and resilient communities. (Correspondent)
Meanwhile, International Day of Older Persons was celebrated at Conference Hall, Chief Medical Officer’s Office Wokha with District Programme Officer (NCD) Wokha, Dr. Aseno Rhetso as keynote speaker.
CMO Wokha, Dr. Thungchanbemo Ezung, formally launched International Day of Older Persons at Urban Primary Health Centre Wokha in presence of Medical Superintendent, District Hospital Wokha, Dr. Mhonchan N. Kithan, Programme Officer, DPMU staffs, medical staffs and participants.
PEREN
As part of the nationwide observance of the International Day of Older Persons 2025, a Samajik Adhikarita Shivir was held at Peren Town Hall for the distribution of aids and assistive devices to senior citizens and persons with disabilities (Divyangjan).
The programme was organized by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, across 10 locations simultaneously, with the central event inaugurated by the Secretary at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.
According to a DIPR report, the Peren camp followed assessments conducted in April 2025, where 11 Divyangjan and 989 senior citizens were evaluated for support.
A total of 1180 aids and appliances worth approximately Rs. 26.72 lakh were distributed to 296 senior citizens under the Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) and two Divyangjan under the ADIP scheme.
ADC Peren, D. Robin, attended the event along with officials from the District Social Welfare and District Administration. Distributed items included folding wheelchairs, walkers, walking sticks, BTE hearing aids, spinal supports, wheelchairs with commode, silicone cushions, LS belts, tripods, and knee braces.
The initiative aimed to empower beneficiaries and enhance their mobility, independence, and quality of life.
MOKOKCHUNG
The International Day of Older Persons was celebrated on October 2 at the Anentzubo Sector community hall in Mokokchung village, honoring the contributions and wisdom of senior citizens. The event was graced by CDPO Ongpangkong North, Department of Social Welfare, Mokokchung, Meyalemla Ao, as the special guest.
In her address, Meyalemla Ao commended the sector authorities for their coordination in organizing the event and shared insights into the history and significance of the global observance.
Speaking directly to the elderly attendees, she emphasized the importance of regular health check-ups and mental well-being, encouraging them to maintain awareness and positivity.
She described senior citizens as pillars of society, stating, “We cannot carry on without you,” and wished them long life and continued wisdom for future generations.
The programme featured reflections from three elderly representatives, expressing collective sentiments on behalf of the senior citizens. Sector Secretary Imkongkumzuk chaired the event, with a welcome address by Chairman Subongtemsu. A special prayer for the elderly was offered by SBC Associate Pastor (Women), Imtimenla, and the vote of thanks was delivered by executive member Meyikumzuk.
As a gesture of appreciation, gifts were presented to all 58 senior citizens of the sector.