Workshop on elderly issues underway at Nagaland University

DIMAPUR — A two-day national-level workshop on ‘elderly issues,’ sponsored by the National Institute of Social Defence, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, got underway on Wednesday at the conference hall of Sociology department, Nagaland University.

An update from the University stated that the event witnessed active participation from representatives of six neighboring villages, research scholars and postgraduate students, fostering a multidisciplinary and community-oriented dialogue on elderly issues.

The programme began with a brief felicitation ceremony in honour of Prof. Mala Kapur Shankardass, who was the key resource person of the workshop.

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In her introductory address, Prof. Toshimenla Jamir, head of Sociology department and convenor of the workshop, presented a comprehensive overview of the objectives and expected outcomes of the workshop, underscoring its relevance in the current socio-demographic context.

Addressing the gathering, the vice-chancellor of Nagaland University, Prof. Jagadish K Patnaik, emphasised the importance of academic collaboration, interdisciplinary engagement and the need to integrate scholarly research into policy frameworks addressing elderly issues, which was followed by a song presented by research scholars and masters’ students from the Sociology department.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Shankardass, retired professor from Delhi University and distinguished expert in gerontology and social policy, gave insights on ranges of critical concern affecting the elderly, including social exclusion, financial vulnerability and the lack of comprehensive policy support. She also emphasised the need for increased awareness, strategic planning and policy formulation.

She further highlighted the importance of integrating academic insights into policy-making to ensure inclusive and equitable solutions for the elderly population.

The session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Sandeep Gupta, associate professor of Sociology, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, participants and organisers for their active involvement and invaluable contributions towards making the event a success.