Guwahati, 01 October (HS): Assam Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Ashwini Rai Sarkar on Thursday said the government was committed to ensuring the dignity, rights, safety and active participation of senior citizens in society.

Addressing an International Senior Citizens’ Day programme at the Sri Sri Damodardev International Auditorium at Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra here, the minister described senior citizens as an invaluable repository of knowledge, experience, values and life lessons.

The programme was organised by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Senior Citizens’ Welfare Council, Assam, in association with the Assam Senior Citizens’ Federation.

Sarkar said senior citizens had made lifelong contributions to the development of families, society and the state. Respect, empathy and responsible behaviour towards them were essential for building a more humane and sensitive society, he said.

The minister stressed that the welfare of senior citizens was not the sole responsibility of the government, and called upon families, society and every citizen to share the responsibility. He also urged the younger generation to learn from the experience and values of senior citizens and contribute actively to society-building.

Sarkar said the Assam government was committed to enabling senior citizens to lead their lives with good health, security, dignity and confidence. He added that the government would continue to strengthen coordination among departments and organisations and make welfare measures more effective by responding sensitively to the needs and concerns of senior citizens.

The government would continue working with commitment to provide senior citizens with respect, protection and opportunities for active participation, thereby contributing to a healthier, safer and more dignified society, the minister said.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash