Meira Kumar flags off 'walkathon' on International Day of Older Persons

New Delhi, Oct 1 : Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Meira Kumar here today flagged off a "walkathon" to promote inter-generational bonding on the occasion of International Day of Older Persons.

Emphasizing the need to sensitize the society at large about the needs of the older persons, Kumar said that the Government is very much concerned about the welfare and security of the older persons, especially those belonging to below poverty line and families residing in remote and rural areas.

She further added that the cooperation of NGOs and public, especially the youth is required to create an environment where older persons get respect, care and due affection.

The function was organised by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in collaboration with HelpAge India.

About 2,500 senior citizens and school children were participated in the event. Some girls from Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Hostel in Agartala were also participated. They later presented a dance performance on the occasion.

October 1 is observed all over the world as International Day of the Elderly. The basic idea behind the celebrations is to recognize the services rendered by the senior citizens and to reiterate the Government's commitment towards the cause of the elderly.

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has been organising a series of programmes and felicitating the distinguished senior citizens with 'Vayoshreshta Samman'.

ANI