The Zunheboto District Senior Citizen Association, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department and Legal Services Authority, joined the global celebration of International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2023. The event took place at the VDB Hall at 1 PM, focusing on the theme, "Resilience of Older Persons in a Changing World."
The program was graced by the presence of K. Tokugha Sukhalu, IAS (Rtd), Advisor for Food & Civil Supplies and Legal Metrology, who served as the special guest.
Advisor K. Tokugha Sukhalu, IAS (Rtd), in his address, urged everyone to come together to honor and celebrate the significant contributions of seniors to society. He emphasized that older individuals have played an integral role in shaping society and the lives of the younger generation. Sukhalu encouraged reflection on the challenges faced by senior citizens and called for greater awareness of their needs, emphasizing the importance of respect, understanding, and care.
He stressed the importance of creating a more inclusive and equitable society where seniors can live with dignity and fulfillment. Sukhalu pointed out that the International Day of Older Persons serves as an opportunity to recognize the importance of older individuals and raise awareness about their challenges in accessing healthcare, social security, and other services. He emphasized the need for policies and legislation to protect the rights and well-being of older persons.
Advisor Sukhalu also highlighted the historical contributions of Zunheboto's elders, who played a pivotal role in establishing the district as the Sumi headquarters. He called upon the community to contribute to the prosperity and peace of society, citing the need for land donations to support development initiatives.
EAC Hq. Moplin, in his brief speech, expressed gratitude to the seniors for their efforts in building and maintaining the district. He emphasized the importance of their wisdom and support for the administration.
The program, chaired by Er. Yekuto Zhimomi, GS of the Senior Citizen Association Zunheboto District Unit (SCAZDU), included an invocation prayer by Rev. Henito Kiba, Chaplain of SCAZDU, a welcome address by Er. Ghokishe Zhimomi, President of SCAZDU, and a keynote address by Y. Tauhong Ngonyen, DWO Zunheboto.
Easter H. Yeptho, a retainer lawyer in Zunheboto, spoke about the rights and facilities available to older persons, and cultural performances included a Sumi folk song by Yetozhe Zhimomi and group and a special song by the Hope Messengers.
Rev. Honito Chophi, Pastor of UBC Satakha, offered prayers for the older persons, and Akuto Chishi, Advisor of SCAZDU, delivered the vote of thanks.
(Atobo H. Yeptho, IA Zunheboto)
