Chizokho Vero
Kohima | October 1
Minister for Planning & Urban Development Dr. Shurhozelie Liezietsu today challenged the Nagaland Senior Citizens Forum (NSCF) to actively engage, participate and carry forward some of the burning problems that face Naga society. “I expect great things from you in community participation for the welfare of the people and community particularly for the elders, senior citizens who are less-privileged,” said the Minister speaking at the World Elders Day programme at the Red Cross Conference Hall.
Referring to the theme of this year’s elders’ day, “Elders in community participation” the Minister urged the seniors to play their role in the protection of environment and ecology. “Our need to protect pollution of the soil, water, air, etc. including the flora and fauna needs our active participation,” he said while also urging the elders to pay special attention to the promotion of health, fitness, healthy lifestyle etc.
The minister urged them to create awareness on the evils of tobacco use, drug and alcohol abuse, promiscuity and unsafe sex practices and other social evils including STD, HIV and AIDS. He also cited the importance of adopting healthy lifestyles in eating, meditation, prayer, relaxation and enjoyment of life. Dr. Shurhozelie also sought their contribution towards promotion of civic sense, good manners and good neighborly relations. Another point is that the indiscriminate disposal of wastes- plastics, garbage others wastes etc. is to be avoided, he said. He also stated that observance of courtesy, good manners, consideration for others will smoothen many inter-personal relations and thus avoid ugly incidents of the recent past.
Referring to protection and preservation of heritage, he said “We follow the traditions of handing down our history, customs, practices and traditions including our songs and dances through words of mouth only. They need to be properly documented and recorded.” Artifacts, materials of historical interest, monuments, structures etc. need to be preserved for posterity, he added.
Stating that elders and seniors need support in all respect, he cited the three areas as- “educating the children and the youngsters to be aware and alert to the problems of the elders, senior is necessary, doctors and medical professionals are made conversant with the problems and diseases of the geriatric right from the primary health care level and social and faith group support should be encouraged including establishment of old-age homes, counseling programmes, day care centres, home-care services for the bedridden and deserving cases.”
“Let the beauty of the grey head of the NSCF provide guidance, service, enlightenment and progress through their vast knowledge, experience, wisdom and intellectual resources to the cause of the Nagas,” the Minister added. Earlier, the Minister also joined in the ‘Elders Walk,’ which was flagged off by Kohima Deputy Commissioner Sachopra Vero at the Indoor Stadium. NSCF chairman H. Hesso chaired the function while K. Peseyie, Rtd Director Education said the welcome address.
