Shillong, Oct 1: The Department of Social Welfare 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 state-level programme brought together nearly 400 elderly people along with government representatives, stakeholders and civil society members.
Adviser to the department Paul Lyngdoh, Director Saloni Verma, Meghalaya State Commission for Women Chairperson Iamon Syiem attended the programme.
Addressing the gathering, Lyngdoh said ageing should not be fought or opposed and growing older is a natural part of life. He questioned the preoccupation with staying young through cosmetic and medical interventions, stressing that the important question is how we continue to grow through different stages of life. “It is all in the mind,” he said, underlining a positive outlook, purpose and willingness to learn and create at every age.
Syiem said senior citizens have accumulated immense knowledge and insight and society must value this wisdom. She acknowledged the role of the department in providing schemes related to shelter, healthcare and assistance.
Verma said while it is great that we are living longer, it is important to ensure that these years are meaningful, secure and dignified. Older persons should be seen not merely as recipients of assistance but as active contributors to society, she said.
The celebration featured a musical presentation and a video presentation titled ‘A Journey Down Memory Lane.’ Senior-most male and female participants were felicitated, along with representatives of old-age homes and day-care centres.
In West Khasi Hills, the DSWO, Nongstoin in collaboration with DLSA, Nongstoin organised the programme at Community Hall, Mawkadiang. Health screening and gift distribution were organised, and the team visited bedridden elderly persons at their homes for medical assistance.
In East Jaintia Hills, the observance was held at Rangad village in collaboration with the Day Care Centre for Senior Citizens, Khliehriat.
DSWO R. Bareh highlighted the need for greater attention to health and well-being of senior citizens with increasing longevity, while Case Worker of the One Stop Centre, Hyrin Pale stressed the responsibility of children and families to care for elderly members and informed about assistance available for those facing neglect or mistreatment.
In West Jaintia Hills, DSWO West Jaintia Hills in collaboration with DLSA, Mihmyntdu Community Social Welfare Association (MCSWA) and YMCA, Jowai organised a programme at Lumkywiang Community Hall, Jowai.
DSWO Y. Najiar highlighted contributions of older persons and various welfare schemes. F. Passah, Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel, DLSA, elaborated on provisions of the Senior Citizens Act, while MCSWA Centre Manager Sunita Suna highlighted the need for a dedicated Drop-In Centre and importance of physical and psychological exercises for the elderly.
Gifts were distributed to all participants at all locations.
