Shillong: Meghalaya honored its senior citizens on Thursday during the International Day of Older Persons. State officials gathered at the State Convention Centre in Shillong to highlight the need for dignity and active ageing. Adviser to the Social Welfare department Paul Lyngdoh urged citizens to embrace ageing. He stated, "Ageing should not be viewed as something to be fought against, but as a natural stage of life that society must prepare to support."
Events focused on the theme of rethinking systems for longer lives. Officials honored residents over 90 who remain active in the workforce. Lyngdoh pointed to the example of Kmoin Wahlang, a mother of 12 who overcame health issues to become an international marathon runner. The event also included a visual retrospective titled A Journey Down Memory Lane and formal recognition for the oldest male and female participants.
Separately, the District Social Welfare Office in West Jaintia Hills held a ceremony at Lumkywiang Community Hall. DSWO Y. Najiar outlined various welfare schemes for the elderly. F. Passah, representing the District Legal Services Authority, detailed legal protections under the Senior Citizens Act. Sunita Suna of the MCSWA called for a new local drop-in center to support the mental and physical health of seniors. The district office distributed gifts to all attendees to mark the occasion.
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