National workshop on elderly issues

The inaugural session of a two-day national-level workshop on elderly issues was held on October 15 at the Conference Hall, Department of Sociology, Nagaland University. The workshop was sponsored by the National Institute of Social Defence, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India.
According to a press release issued by Nagaland University, Prof. Toshimenla Jamir, Head of the Department of Sociology and Convenor of the workshop, delivered the introductory address, outlining the objectives and expected outcomes of the programme. She emphasized its relevance in the current socio-demographic context.
Vice-Chancellor of Nagaland University, Prof. Jagadish K. Patnaik, addressed the gathering and stressed the importance of academic collaboration, interdisciplinary engagement, and the integration of scholarly research into policy frameworks concerning elderly welfare.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Mala Kapur Shankardass, retired Professor from Delhi University and a noted expert in gerontology and social policy, highlighted critical concerns affecting the elderly, including social exclusion, financial vulnerability, and inadequate policy support.
She called for increased awareness, strategic planning, and sociologically grounded policy formulation to ensure inclusive and equitable solutions.
The event witnessed active participation from representatives of six neighbouring villages, research scholars, and postgraduate students, fostering a multidisciplinary and community-oriented dialogue on elderly issues.