Event Detail

Date : 26th November, 2025

Report on the Celebration of the International Day of Older Persons
Under Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana
Pakyong District 26.11.2025
The Women, Child, Senior Citizen and Divyangjan Welfare Department (WCSCDWD), Pakyong District, observed the International Day of Older Persons under the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana at the Auditorium Hall of Namcheybong GPU. The programme was headed by DD-cum-SWO, Mrs. Dikit Lepcha.
The event was graced by Mr. Bishal Sharma/Pokhrel, Additional Political Secretary to the Hon'ble Chief Minister and NGO Representative of the District Tribunal for Senior Citizens, as the Chief Guest, and Mr. Thendup Lepcha, SDM (HQ), as the Guest of Honour. Also present were Welfare Officer Mrs. Sunita Dahal, Panchayat President Mrs.Sakeela Rai, Zilla Panchayats, Ward Panchayats, Assistant Directors, officials, staff, senior citizens, and representatives from collaborating organisations.
This year's theme, "Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being, Our Rights," highlighted the vital role of senior citizens in shaping resilient and equitable communities through active participation in local and global decision-making.
Key Highlights of the Programme:
1. Felicitation Ceremony
A total of 10 retired bureaucrats, teachers, and social workers were felicitated for their outstanding contributions and lifelong service to society.
2. Cultural & Motivational Activities
A cake cutting ceremony was organised to uplift the spirits of senior citizens. Gift items were distributed to all participants.
A song dedicated to senior citizens was performed by Ms. Mangalmit Lepcha, a budding singer.
⚫ Mrs. Yasodha Regmi recited poems on the theme of old age, touching the hearts of the audience.
• The programme was successfully anchored by social welfare Inspector. Sesir Ghimirey.
3. Health Support Initiative
A combined medical team from the Health Department and Pakyong PHC conducted comprehensive health check-ups, including:
• Physiotherapy
⚫ Dental screening
• General medical check-up

⚫ Eye check-up
⚫ Nutritional counselling Pharmaceutical support
The team consisted of a Physiotherapist, Dental Surgeon, Medical Officer, Staff Nurse, Dietician, Pharmacist, and Optometrist.
The Greater Lions Club, Siliguri, organised a dedicated eye-screening camp and distributed free spectacles to senior citizens. Additionally, walking sticks were provided as a token of care and support.
4. Technical Session & Awareness
Address by the Chief Guest
The Chief Guest appreciated the department for organising a meaningful programme dedicated to senior citizens. He emphasised:
• The invaluable contributions of older persons
The importance of acknowledging their lifelong service
• The vision of the Hon'ble Chief Minister for a "Sunaulo, Samriddha ani Samarth Sikkim"
• The need to support physical and mental well-being
Collective responsibility in fostering a healthy and addiction-free society
Address by the Deputy Director
DD-cum-SWO Mrs. Dikit Lepcha underlined the significance of observing this day and assured that the department remains accessible for addressing issues faced by senior citizens, especially pension-related matters.
Awareness by Gender Specialist
Ms. Kusum Sharma, Gender Specialist (DHEW), spoke on:
Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) eligibility and necessary documents

Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007
Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) improving the quality of life of senior citizens through active ageing, access to basic amenities, and social and financial support
5. Interactive Session
An open discussion was organised where senior citizens shared their concerns and sought clarification on various schemes and provisions. The interaction proved highly productive and encouraging.
Conclusion:
The programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Ms. Sanjita Sharma of the DHEW Division. The celebration successfully honored the contributions of senior citizens while promoting awareness on health, welfare schemes, and rights reflecting the district's commitment to creating a dignified and supportive environment for the elderly.