Empowering the Elderly: SWD Kishtwar organises Senior Citizens’ Mela
KISHTWAR, MARCH 28: The Department of Social Welfare, Kishtwar, under the directions of Director Social Welfare Department Jammu Ranjeet Singh, today organized a vibrant and inclusive Senior Citizens’ Mela here at the Tourist Reception Centre,
Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma was the chief guest on the occasion, while the event was held under the supervision of District Social Welfare Officer Tariq Parveaz Qazi. The event attracted enthusiastic participation from elderly residents, featuring a wide range of activities. The event aimed to foster active aging, social interaction and mental well-being of elderly persons.
A major highlight of the program was a free health consultation camp organised by the Health and AYUSH departments, Besides, medical check-up, free medicines were also provided to elderly participants, ensuring comprehensive support for their health and wellness. A yoga session conducted by AYUSH experts further promoted physical fitness and holistic wellness among attendees.
Recreational activities formed a key component of the mela with senior citizens participating in games such as chess, carrom, ludo and badminton, reflecting the spirit of vitality and enthusiasm among the elderly population.
The cultural segment featuring musical performances and a soulful ghazal rendition by Tariq Hussain added further vibrancy to the event. Renowned poet Bansi Lal Aryan also recited a meaningful poem on the theme “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao,” which was well received by the audience.
To facilitate access to essential services, the Social Welfare Department established a dedicated help desk for the on-the-spot generation of Digital Life Certificates (DLCs), enabling senior citizens to complete important documentation conveniently.
The department also conducted digital literacy awareness sessions to empower elderly participants with essential technological skills for better access to online services.
Earlier in the day, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) visited the Senior Citizen Club/Day Care Centre located near the District Hospital.
During the visit, the DC dedicated several recreational and comfort-enhancing facilities to the centre, including table tennis equipment, carrom boards, chess sets, ludo games, a massage chair and an LED television, significantly enhancing the quality of services available for senior citizens.
Addressing the gathering at the mela, the DC highlighted that senior citizens are a true asset to the country. He emphasized that senior citizens can contribute significantly to development initiatives, the eradication of drug menace and the revival of traditional culture, thereby strengthening society and enriching the community.
The DC assured that all offices would provide special attention to senior citizens, ensuring comfortable seating, prioritization of their work and immediate resolution of their requests.
Addressing citizens’ concerns, the DC reassured attendees about the adequate availability of essential commodities, including LPG fuel and food grains, across the district. He also informed that home delivery of LPG cylinders is being ensured within 2–3 days after proper booking.
An NGO, the Asraria Institute and Technical Education, also cooperated with the department in organizing the event.
The event was attended by ADC Pawan Kotwal, CEO KDA Kaiser Bhawani, TSWO Paddar Rajesh Sharma as well as other officers and staff of the Social Welfare Department, Kishtwar.
