Shillong, October 1, 2026: The Department of Social Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, observed the International Day of Older Persons 2026 at the State Convention Centre, Shillong, on Thursday, under the theme “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives.” The programme brought together nearly 400 elderly people, along with government representatives, stakeholders and members of civil society, to celebrate the contributions of older people and reflect on the need for systems that support longer, meaningful and dignified lives.
Dignitaries in attendance included Bah Paul Lyngdoh, Adviser to the Social Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya; Smti. Saloni Verma, IAS, Director, Social Welfare Department; Smti. Iamon Syiem, Chairperson, Meghalaya State Commission for Women; among others.
Addressing the gathering, Bah Paul Lyngdoh, Adviser to the Social Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya, emphasized that ageing should not be viewed as something to be fought or opposed, noting that growing older is a natural part of life. He questioned the contemporary preoccupation with staying young through cosmetic and medical interventions, stressing that the more important question is not simply how long we live or how we look, but how we continue to grow through different stages of life.
He stated that “it is all in the mind,” underlining the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, purpose and willingness to continue learning and creating at every age. He urged everyone to carry the message of the celebration beyond the event and recognize that there is always an opportunity to learn, contribute and find meaning at every stage of life.
Smti. Iamon Syiem, Chairperson, Meghalaya State Commission for Women, stated that senior citizens have accumulated immense knowledge, understanding and insight through their experiences and circumstances, and that society must recognize and value this wealth of wisdom.
Acknowledging the role of the Social Welfare Department in providing schemes, safeguards and support related to shelter, healthcare and assistance across districts, Smti. Syiem urged senior citizens and those caring for them to remain aware of these provisions. She also highlighted the importance of strong family and community support systems in ensuring that older people are respected, supported and able to live with dignity.
The celebration featured a range of activities, including a special musical presentation and a video presentation offering a throwback to Shillong of the past, titled “A Journey Down Memory Lane: Videos and Photographs,” providing an opportunity to celebrate the memories, experiences and contributions of older persons.
Smti. Saloni Verma, IAS, Director of Social Welfare Department, said, “While it is great that we are living longer, it is important to ensure that these years are not only longer, but meaningful, secure and dignified.” She emphasized that older people should be seen not merely as recipients of healthcare and financial assistance, but as active contributors to society, whose knowledge, values and experience can be harnessed for the well-being of present and future generations.
As part of the programme, senior-most male and female participants were felicitated. Representatives of old-age homes and day-care centers were also felicitated in recognition of their selfless service, dedication and compassion towards the care and well-being of older people. A medical check-up facility was also organized in collaboration with the Department of Health and Family Welfare, providing health screening and medical support to the elderly participants.
