Two elderly women return home with gift tokens they received during the International Day of Older Persons celebration, held October 1 at White Hall, Noklak village. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Noklak | October 1
International Day of Older Persons under the theme ‘The age of Longevity: Rethinking system for longer lives’ was celebrated on October 1 at White Hall, Noklak village, organised by the Department of Social Welfare, Noklak.
During the event, two elders were honoured with an award for the social service rendered to the society. Monglua, 73, of Chiphur Village, Noklak district was honoured for his dedication over five decades to public and community service. His journey began with student leadership in the Chiphur Students Union, followed by service in the church, community and tribal organisations. He has also held various responsibilities in political organisations and served as an Executive Member of the Khiamniungan Tribal Council. Since 2021, he has been serving as a CEC Member of the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO), and since 2022 as President of the Khiamniungan Union, Tuensang. His long-standing service reflects his continued contribution to community leadership and public life.
Monghoi, a 101 year old of Choklangan Village, Noklak district was honoured for her devotion towards the community service and the preservation of Khiamniungan cultural traditions.
Since her baptism in 1967, she served at Choklangan Baptist Church, including as a women’s leader, deaconess and church treasurer. She also served as an executive member of the Khiamniungan Baptist Church Association and as treasurer of the Choklangan Students’ Union. Beyond her church and community responsibilities, Monghoi was a founding member of the present-day Elon-niu group, which works to preserve traditional weaving practices using locally available materials such as nettle and orange rhea. She has contributed to passing traditional knowledge and skills to younger generations, helping keep the community’s indigenous heritage alive. Today, she is a mother of eight and grandmother of 44.
CDPO, Noklak, Emiltenzuk, in his keynote address briefed the gathering on the history and significance of the event. He termed the occasion as an important milestone for people aged 60 years and above, who he said are “assets, mentors and anchors of society.”
He emphasised that senior citizens should not be viewed merely as beneficiaries, but as individuals who have played a huge role in shaping and nurturing the present generation. He urged the younger generation to spend time with the elderly, assist them in their daily needs, including banking and other essential services.
Chaang C, case worker (Legal), Sakhi-One Stop Centre highlighted on the Rights of Senior Citizen, Maintenance and welfare of Parents and senior citizen Act, 2007. She stressed the importance of ensuring the dignity, protection and welfare of elderly persons and creating greater awareness of their legal rights.
DEF Police Chaplain, Noklak, K Mono, while speaking on the theme, emphasised the importance of caring for and respecting older persons. He encouraged senior citizens to practice self-care and maintain a healthy lifestyle for longevity. He also stressed the importance of leading a spiritual life, and encouraged them to uphold truth and integrity in their lives.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Khengo, LDA, Invocation by Shim P, Associate Pastor Women, Baptist Church Thang, Emiltenzuk, CDPO Noklak, Special number was presented by Anganwadi Workers, Noklak ICDS project, vote of thanks by Shing B, Gender Specialist DHEW.
