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Kohima, Oct. 1: Nagaland today observed International Day of Older Persons here with the rest of the country.
The day was marked with a walkathon from the Old MLA Hostel junction to Hotel Japfu around 7 this morning.
Neikiesalie Nicky Kire, adviser, Music Task Force and chairman of Nagaland Khadi and Village Industry Board flagged off the event.
A function, held in honour of the senior citizens at Hotel Japfu, discussed the problems and security of the elderly. Khanlo Magh, director of National Rural Health Mission, addressed the crowd.
He said October 1 is observed as International Day of Older Persons in pursuance of the United Nation General Assembly Resolution of 1990 and in the year 1991 the General Assembly adopted the United Nations principles for Older Persons.
“The day is celebrated annually to recognise the contributions and the immense wisdom and dignity of older persons. It is a day when the world honours them without whose valuable advice the society will find it difficult to progress in multiple areas of life,” Magh said.
He said International Day of Older Persons aims to promote the independence, participation and contribution of older persons and added that they are vibrant and essential contributors to the development and stability of society and there are many ways to utilise their potential.
Stating that growing old is a normal and inevitable phenomenon and cannot be prevented, he said senior citizens have to cope with health and other associated problems.
Other speakers said senior citizens were a treasure to society, yet these silver linings have been unnoticed too long, unappreciated and under utilised in many societies.
The senior citizens shared their vast experience in different walks of life.
The Nagaland Senior Citizens’ Forum felicitated H.S. Rotokha, 78, currently secretary of Sumi Literature Board and also the chairman of Sumi Senior Citizens Forum, Zunheboto, at the ceremony today. Neichulieu Nikki Haralu, 94, a pioneer and forerunner, was also honoured for her contributions to society.
Starting from Mission School, Kohima, she went on to earn her Master’s degree from Haverford College, US.
She is the first Naga to join the Indian Foreign Services as a career diplomat and also earned the top post for her services as an ambassador to Costa Rica and Nicaragua and retired with commendable service record.
A member of Children’s Guide, department of social welfare, compered the function.
R. Chirhotshü Nyusou and Lui Tzudir entertained the gathering with a special number and Khevito T. Shohe, director of social welfare, proposed the vote of thanks.
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