‘Leaving no one behind, promoting a society for all’

State honours elders for extraordinary contributions Principal Correspondent KOHIMA, OCTOBER 1 Nagaland today joined in observing the International Day of Older Persons under the theme “Leaving no one behind, promoting a society for all” at a state level function organized by Social Welfare department at Zonal Council Hall Kohima. Parliamentary Secretary for Horticulture Kejong Chang, who graced the occasion as chief guest, called upon the elderly persons to help the youngsters follow good moral behaviour. “We the older people should set examples for our grand children to lead a good moral life so that the society can change for the better,” he stressed. 90-year-old senior most legislator of the State Chang maintained that as grandparents and elderly people of the society they should share ideas and experience towards the betterment of the society. He also encouraged them to do physical exercise and also maintain healthy eating habits. Educationist and recipient of Governor’s Award (2011) Achilla Imlong Erdican, in her address, encouraged the government employees to be sincere towards their duties and responsibilities. “One should not simply work to earn salary but as government employees they should be punctual in office,” she said while stressing the need for work ethics. She also encouraged the employees to do their work with honesty, dedication and dignity. Achilla and Khumtsa Wotsa received the State Older Persons Award for their extraordinary contributions towards the uplift of the Naga society. The Kohima District Older Persons award went to Kentso Keppen and Janikhoü Savino. Dwelling on the significance of the day, president of Nagaland Senior Citizen’s Forum Dr. SI Tushi Ao appealed that the State government upgrade the number of old age pensioners. He also urged for timely disbursement of Annapurna Scheme. He further suggested enactment of Maintenance and Welfare of Senior Citizen Act and setting up of a Tribunal to look into the grievances of the older persons. The NSCF also urged the government to set up Geriatric ward in all district hospitals with trained doctors and nurses. The NSCF also appealed for granting travel subsidy and reserved seats for older persons in the state transport. Director of Social Welfare department Khevito T Shohe said similar programme is being organized in all the district headquarters of the State to honour and respect the older people. Earlier in the morning, the Social Welfare department along with the older persons held walkathon from Old MLA Hostel junction to Zonal Council Hall via Razhü Point and D’Block. The programme was compered by Social Welfare Supervisor Ajungla Temjen. Special number was presented Khiamniungan Baptist Church Kohima.