Social Welfare department organised special programme for the senior citizens under the theme, “Pandemics: Do they change how we address age and ageing” on the occasion of “International Day of Older Persons (IDOP)” on October 1 in various districts of the state.
Kohima: In Kohima, a short programme was held under the aegis of Social Welfare department on Thursday, where district welfare officer Kohima, Akali Sema said that the aim was to increase awareness and appreciation of the role of health care workforce in maintaining and improving the health of older persons. She said due to Covid-19 pandemic and considering the higher risks confronted by older person, the department had organised only to facilitate two senior citizens from district and state level to avoid public gathering. Awards were presented to senior citizens in recognition of their contributions to society, Alhou Albina Dzuvichu (90 years) and Yankey Patton (93 years) were awarded at the state level, while Jalesou Yhoshu (65 years) and Meguo-o Mechulho (76 years) were recognized and felicitated with certificates for Kohima district level. (Correspondent)
Meanwhile, directorate of Social Welfare celebrated the day at the Social Welfare director’s chamber on October 1. According to DIPR report, president Senior Citizen Association Nagaland (SCAN) Khekiye K Sema (Rtd) speaking at the event said that Social Welfare was an important department as much can be done towards upliftment and protecting the welfare of the old age people. Sema said that senior citizens have much to contribute towards the society with their years of experiences yet very less opportunity are given to them. He also stated that Naga society is blessed to have a strong customs and traditions whereby one can take care of the elderly people who were helpless and in need of care. Sema reminded the younger generations to keep the tradition alive and take care of the elderly people. Sema also urged the department to create a social order and norms to improve the welfare services and well-being of the senior citizens and the society as a whole.
Department also gave awards to two distinguished senior citizens commemorating the event.
Meluri: In Meluri the programme was held at village council hall organised by Miiluori Shefiiri Kiigharii (MSK) on October 1, with Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe as the guest speaker. He emphasised on how older people paved the way for the young and encouraged the senior citizens to be content with their lives and not ponder on old grudges and mistakes. Speaker expressed happiness that there was no history regarding the contraction of COVID-19 among the Meluri elderly people. Out of 138 older people above 75 years, 44 male and 47 females, a total of 91 attended the programme.
Keynote address was delivered by Poriitho Ngouri CDPO Meluri and vote of thanks was delivered by Nyuletho Nyuthe. Programme was chaired by Kuothosie, president, MSK.