Ampati, October 5: The International Day for Older Persons was celebrated in a befitting manner at Ampati on Thursday, with discussions on the role, contribution and participation of senior citizens in the society as well as felicitation of senior citizens of the district to mark the occasion.
Organized by District Social Welfare Department, South West Garo Hills, the celebration was based on the theme for the year “Stepping into the Future: Tapping the talents, Contributions & Participation of Older Persons in the Society” and was participated by hundreds of senior citizens from across the district.
In his address on the occasion as the chief guest, Retd. Director, Oil India Company, Bongaigaon & Vice-Chancellor, Williamson Memorial University, Tura R. D. Marak said while aging is a natural process, many senior citizens are bound to face old age crisis if they do not prepare themselves for the future.
He counseled the participants that as they attain superannuation and old age, they should not remain reclusive but go out and live the remaining days of their lives with a positive attitude using whatever skills and talents they have for meaningful contribution to the society. He also stressed the need to maintain spiritually sound mind and body by having a disciplined life and keeping their spirits active through meditation and other healthy activities.
During the programme, Public Prosecutor, Tengsrang Sangma spoke at length about the legal rights of senior citizens and how to avail them with a special emphasis on Maintenance of Parents & Senior Citizens Act, 2007, while, SDMO, Ampati, Dr. Calvaryn Sangma dwelt on the health issues of older persons and how they can maintain a healthy life by following healthy diet and keeping themselves mentally, physically and socially active.
Earlier, District Social Welfare Officer, Ampati, Linda J. Sangma in her introductory address, highlighted on the significance of the celebration of the International Older Persons’ Day with a special focus on the theme of the celebration.
Two senior citizens of Ampati, President of Ampati Senior Citizens Association & church elder, Mr. Gospel G. Sangma and retired teacher, Mrs. Deobalish Sangma were conferred with awards as a recognition for their outstanding contribution to the society; while the oldest senior citizens (male & female), Mr. Dingsin Marak, 80 and M. Marak, 79, respectively, were also felicitated with mementoes on the occasion. Gifts were also distributed to all the senior citizens present as part of the celebration.
