1 Oct : Along with the rest of the country World Elders Day 2008 was celebrated in the state capital today 1st October 2008 under the theme ‘Elders Contribution to Society’.
Advisor, Nagaland Senior Citizens Forum, O. Kathipri flagged off the programme at the Red Cross complex, after which all the senior citizens of Kohima town walked to the official residence of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.
Addressing the elder persons at the State Banquet hall as the chief guest, Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio challenged the senior citizens to raise their voices loudly and clearly regarding local problems like the Naga peace process and the Nagaland University mess. He quoted a saying ‘if you are not a part of solution than you are the problem’ and asked the senior citizens to be a part of the solution. If the senior citizens raise their voice it will be heard’, he mentioned and further said ‘people depend on you and they will hear you for you have age, experience feeling of achievement and you can contribute a lot in the political issue’.
Rio also disclosed that the Education Department is coming up with the idea to identify older people, so that they can teach our rich culture and traditions to the younger generations. He also said that discussions are on abut the idea of opening recreational centers for the elders at the district level, so that they can spend time together and discuss various topics of interests, and contribute more to the society.
Rio regretted that the Nagas’ mentality about freedom is still very raw, and asked the senior citizens to emphasize on the freedom to coexist suitably in the present day civilization. Dwelling on the lifestyles of Nagas, Rio said that we are not health conscious unlike the civilized society and felt that taste and health has to be balanced to lead a healthy and disciplined life. Saluting the senior citizens the Chief Minister said that he and his lady wife were privileged and blessed to be the host and hostess on this auspicious day, and prayed for their guidance and support in the years to come.
Retired Director, School Education, Talitsüba, highlighting on the National Policy on Older Persosn said that the policy is enshrined in article 41 of the Indian Constitution, providing all possible facilities to help older people in the country. The policy provides a broad framework in sectoral collaboration between the government and all non-governmental agencies for the benefits of elders in the society everywhere. The policy recognizes the role of NGO sector in providing friendly and affordable services to the older people and also protection of life and property for their well-being, he informed. Preparation of plan of action, setting up of separate bureau, three yearly public review of implementation of the policy, setting up of National Council of Older Persons and establishment of Autonomous Association on Older Person are some of the salient features of National Policy on Older Persons, he said.
The first and only Naga Woman M.P. Rano Shaiza, expressed displeasure over the poor attendance of women and appealed to the male counterparts to propagate the importance of elders’ day in their own places/homes.
W.C. Krome, Kiremwati also spoke on the occasion. Dr. R. Zinyü gave the Secretary’s report while Retd. Director Soil & Water conservation, Vizonyü Theünuo delivered the welcome address. State Chaplain, Rev. Deo Vihienuo said the invocation prayer and the programme was chaired by President, Senior Citizens Forum (NSCF), H. Hesso.
Executive member NSCF, C.T. Rengma proposed the vote of thanks, followed by Naga Lunch hosted by lady wife of Chief Minister, Kaisa Rio.