Remembering the elderly on International Day of Older Persons

DIPR
DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 1

INTERNATIONAL Day of Older Persons was observed in different parts of Nagaland. The day was also observed as part of the commemoration for 50 years of Nagaland Statehood.
In Kohima, the Nagaland Senior Citizens Forum, Kohima and the department of Social Welfare jointly observed the day with senior citizens taking out a walkathon from Old MLA Hostel junction around the main town in the morning. The walkathon led by Minister for Social Welfare Kiyanilie Peseyie as the chief guest culminated with a function at Zonal Council Hall, Konia.Addressing the function, Kiyanilie thanked God for enabling the elders to come and celebrate this special day again along with commemoration of 50 years of Nagaland Statehood. He said with the advancement of medical facilities and technology, life of the human beings has witnessed more prosperity and progressed better.
He stated that as a manifestation of concern for the senior citizens, the State Government and the World Bank have made funds provisions for the welfare of older people in the world.
The minister said the experiences and wisdom of elders should be respected by the younger generations. He also urged the senior citizens to contribute accordingly to the society for proper development and growth.
Vice President of Senior Citizens Forum Dr Kepelhousie Therüja shared his views on the significance of International Day of Older Persons with elderly people and said there are 50,000 senior citizens in the State as per the Old Age Pension.
Director of Social Welfare Khevito T. Shohe delivered a speech on the theme ‘IDOP 2013’ and said the tradition of taking care and respecting elders is the most important gesture in the celebration of the day.
A meaningful and beautiful skit was presented by ‘Dreamz Unlimited’ on this occasion. Vote of thanks was delivered by Deputy Director of Social Welfare Tally Lanu.
On the occasion the minister gave away the State Level Awards while Parliamentary Secretary for Justice & Law, Land Revenue and Labour and Employment Dr Nicky Kire gave away the awards for the District and the Department Special Awards.
The awardees were: Zhavise Vihienuo (State Level Award), Khriezotuo- ü Sekhose, Vilieo Rutsa and Rev. Beilie-u Shuya (District Level Award) and Neithonuo Liegese (Departmental Special Award). .
The day was also observed in various district headquarters of the State.