Bhalla calls for inclusive Manipur
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 01 2025: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has called upon all sections of the people, young and old towards building a more inclusive Manipur.

Speaking at an International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) 2025 observation organised by the Social Welfare Department at Hotel Imphal today, Ajay Kumar Bhalla pointed out that the experience and wisdom of elders are not something which can be learned from books.

The Governor emphasised that elders are not merely recipients of care but active participants in shaping society.

He highlighted that their wisdom, resilience, and lived experiences remain invaluable assets, guiding both families and communities toward harmony and progress.

Highlighting the role of youth, he noted that the energy and innovation of younger generations, when combined with the wisdom and stability of the elderly, create a powerful force capable of addressing both local challenges and global concerns.

Reiterating that dignity, respect, and inclusion are matters of justice rather than charity, the Governor called for stronger inter-generational solidarity to build a more compassionate and inclusive Manipur.

Ajay Kumar Bhalla also appreciated the sustained efforts of the Department of Social Welfare in implementing welfare schemes and initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of senior citizens across the State.

Chief Secretary Dr Puneet Kumar Goel said that senior citizens must always be treated with respect and compassion.

He said that senior citizens are the living treasure house of wisdom, history and traditional knowledge.

Pointing out that elders have rich experiences, Dr Puneet Kumar Goel advised youngsters to seek advice and suggestions from elders to build a progressive society.

Social Welfare Secretary Robert Singh Kshetrimayum was also present at the function.

During the event, the Governor distributed gifts, aids, and assistive devices to senior citizens.

The International Day of Older Persons with the theme "Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights" was held today at Dharmalaya Hall, Brahmapur Nahabam Leikai, Imphal East.

The function, organised by Senior Citizens' Forum, was graced by Thokchom Satyabrata Singh, Speaker, Manipur Legislative Assembly as the chief guest and GA Ravichandra Sharma as the president of the function, said a press release issued by DIPR.

Speaking at the function, Thokchom Satyabrata Singh underlined the significance of the day and emphasized the responsibility of younger generations in caring for elders.

He stressed the need for inter-generational bonding and welfare measures to ensure a dignified life for the older people.

Satyabrata ensured that an office building for Senior Citizens' Forum will be constructed at Paradise Club, Wangkhei.

GA Ravichandra Sharma highlighted the history of observing International Day of Older Persons and its first official observance on October 1, 1991.He stressed on the importance of establishment of the Senior Citizens' Forum, Imphal East in 2010 .

Dr Chongtham Norendra Singh, Sr Advocate, also shared his insights on today's theme "Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights" at the observance function.

17 elder persons from different Assembly Constituencies of the State were felicitated at the function where ex-servicemen, local elders and office bearers of Senior Citizens' Forum, Imphal East were also present.

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