An elderly couple take a stroll on International Day for Older Persons. (PTI)

Kohima, Oct. 1: The social welfare department along with the Nagaland Senior Citizen Forum today organised a Walkathon as part of a state-level programme to observe this day as the International Day of Older Persons.

As the chief guest, chief minister Neiphiu Rio flagged off the event that started from Old MLA Hostel Junction and ended at Red Cross Office Junction here.

Rio said unlike in the developed countries where the people are well aware of the kind of diet they should take for a long life span, the Nagas are carefree in their lifestyle and food habit — the two main reasons for their high mortality rates.

He advised the people and the institutions taking care of the aged persons to be aware of the kind of food and care that will help them stay healthy.

Rio conferred the Distinguished Senior Citizens Awards on K.K. Angami and Kiremwati.

Parliamentary secretary, social welfare, child and women development, Chotisuh Sazo, said the day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the contribution, wisdom, dignity and the needs of senior citizens and renew commitment for their wellbeing.

The State Old Pension and the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme had recently been merged into a single scheme named Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme, he said.

Speaking on the theme The Role and Responsibility of Seniors, the president of the Nagaland Senior Citizen Forum, Kohima, H. Hesso, said in Naga society, the elders are seen as role models and widely respected.

The chairman of the Nagaland Khadi and Village Industry Board, Nicky Kire, parliamentary secretary, industries and commerce, Nihoshe, and parliamentary secretary, housing, T. Saku Aier delivered short speeches.

The day was also observed in Mokokchung and Mon districts.