The Department of Social Welfare, Government of Manipur, observed the International Day of Older Persons 2026 at the City Convention Centre Main Auditorium Hall here today, with a call for greater care, dignity and social support for the elderly.
Speaking as the chief guest, Haobam Roshita, IAS, Commissioner, Social Welfare, highlighted the growing need to care for older persons amid rapid changes in society. She stressed the importance of ensuring that elderly people are treated with affection, listened to with patience and supported with companionship so that they can lead dignified and fulfilling lives.
Roshita also underscored the need for a new policy aimed at improving the welfare and quality of life of older persons. She called for collective action to turn the pledge and slogan adopted on the occasion into meaningful action, rather than allowing them to remain mere ceremonial commitments.
S. Saratkumar Sharma, retired Director of Social Welfare and guest of honour, expressed happiness at being part of the programme and recalled his association with various initiatives of the Social Welfare Department. He also spoke about the need for dedicated health policies for older persons, stressing that their healthcare requirements should receive focused attention.
Presiding over the programme, Sheikh Abdul Hakim, MCS, Director of Social Welfare, said the toll-free helpline 14567 is available for older persons. He said elderly people could lodge complaints through the helpline when they face difficulties, following which the department would take necessary action within its capacity.
Hakim said Manipur currently has around 1,07,000 old-age pension card holders and 42 senior citizen homes across the state. He added that the department has been conducting various awareness programmes to promote the welfare and well-being of older persons.
The programme also featured a Khongjom Eshei performance aimed at promoting emotional well-being among older persons, besides the presentation of gifts to elderly participants.