As part of the observation of International Day of Older Persons, a state level function was held at the Red Cross Building, Kohima this morning with the Advisor, Art & Culture, Science & Technology, New & Renewable Energy Department, Deo Nukhu as the Chief Guest.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Guest said that 1st October is observed as the ‘International Day for Older Persons’ in pursuance of the United Nations General Assembly Resolution of December 1991. He said that the day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the wisdom and dignity contributed by older persons to our society and to re-dedicate ourselves to their well-being. He said that the Department of Social Welfare implements Welfare Schemes for the poor and needy senior citizens like the Indira Gandhi National Old Age pension Scheme (IGNOAP) where reportedly 40,462 senior citizens below poverty line beneficiaries above 65 years of age are provided Rs.300/- PM as old age pension.
Deo Nukhu also said that grant-in-aid is provided to deserving NGOs for running Old Age Homes in the district Hqrs for proper care and protection of destitute and neglected senior citizens. He said that at present there are five Old Age homes in the districts of Kohima, Mokokchung, Dimapur, Mon and Wokha. He further appealed to all the younger people to realize the need of taking care of the welfare of the older people.
Speech on the significance of the International Day of Older Persons was delivered by Retired Director, Medical Services and Executive member of Nagaland Senior Citizen Forum, Dr. S.I. Toshi. He highlighted on the activities of the Nagaland Senior Citizen Forum and also stressed on the Welfare Schemes of the elderly.
The Chief Guest gave away ‘Distinguished Senior Citizens Award 2010’ to distinguished senior citizens Rano M. Shaiza, Ex-Member of Parliament and K. Peseyie Retired Director of School Education & Sports & Youth Resources. K. Peseyie’s award was received by his son on his behalf. The Chief Guest also declared open the essay competition on the topic ‘Social responsibilities towards our Parents and senior Citizens’ (800 words) for all premier High Schools of Nagaland (Class IX & X). The first, second and third prizes will be Rs. 5000/-, Rs. 3000/- and Rs. 2000/- respectively while there will be five consolation prizes of Rs. 1000/- each.
The programme was chaired by President, Nagaland Senior Citizens Forum, H.Hesso. Vote of thanks was delivered by Addl. Director, Social Welfare Department, Khevito T.Shohe. The Chief Guest earlier in the morning flagged off a walkathon from Old MLA junction to the Red Cross Building where he also took part in the walkathon along with a number of participants from the elderly.