Intertiol Day of Older Persons observed in city

By our Staff Reporter

GUWAHATI, Oct 1: The Directorate of Social Welfare, Assam and HelpAge India today jointly organized a meeting to observe the Intertiol Day of Older Persons at the conference hall of the Directorate of Social Welfare, Assam at Uzanbazar in the city.

The Chairman of Assam Senior Citizens Council Subhabrata Sarma, while presiding over the meeting deliberated at length on the significance of observing the Day. He said that the observance of the Day is aimed at creating a society where elderly have the right to an active, healthy and dignified life and to generate awareness amongst different stakeholders and younger generation in particular towards ebling the older persons to realise their potential and pledge to build a life of dignity and honour. Sarma further elaborated on various provisions made under the Assam State Maintence and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Rules, 2012, for the betterment and welfare of senior citizens in the State.

Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Palash Gharpholia, Additiol Director of Social Welfare Dipak Kumar Choudhury and noted social activist Jagat Baruah spoke on various aspects pertaining to the observance of the day, status of the elderly in the State and various initiatives made with respect to the development and welfare of the senior citizens in the State.

Ten senior citizens were felicitated during the meeting. Besides the officials of Directorate of Social Welfare, representatives from HelpAge India and other dignitaries, the meeting was also attended by a large number of senior citizens.

The State head, programme (NE) for HelpAge India Nilondra Tanya delivered the welcome address and offered vote of thanks.