Wangpang Konyak and others with recipients of State Senior Citizen Award during International Day of Older Persons 2025 in Kohima on October 1. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | October 2
Two prominent citizens of Nagaland- Neidonuo Angami and Rev Dr L Anjo Keikung has been conferred with State Senior Citizen Award 2025 by Department of Social Welfare, Nagaland during the State level observation of International Day of Older Persons 2025-cum-25th anniversary of Senior Citizens’ Association of Nagaland (SCAN) in Kohima on October 1.
The award was handed over by Nagaland’s social welfare department advisor Wangpang Konyak.
“This day is not just a celebration, but also a reminder of the invaluable role our elders play in the fabric of our Naga society,” Konyak said while addressing the gathering, held under the theme “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-being, Our Rights.”
The Advisor stressed on the need to strongly advocate for their rights and well -being and work together to create a world “where ageing is celebrated, and every person can live with dignity and purpose.”
He maintained that this year theme resonates deeply with the spirit of Nagaland “since senior citizens are the pillars of our culture, carrying the rich traditions, stories, and wisdom of our tribes.”
In Nagaland, where community and family are at the heart of our existence, your dreams are our collective responsibility, he said.
Konyak urged upon the senior citizens to keep sharing their vision, “because your experience lights the path for the upcoming generations.” Your stories serving as mentors, caregivers and community leaders inspire the younger generation to be resilient and to remain motivated, he said. “I personally feel that without the guidance and wisdom of the seniors, nothing will move forward,” Konyak said.
Complimenting the SCAN on attaining 25 years, he said “Let’s reflect on the milestones achieved and the work ahead.” “Together, let us build a Nagaland where every senior citizen is honored, supported, and empowered,” he said.
Call for expansion of geriatric care facilities
Maintaining that a significant progress have been made, Nagaland’s Social Welfare Secretary Limawabang Jamir, also stressed on the need to acknowledge the social changes that have created challenges for the older persons.
“One of the most prominent changes has been the decline of the traditional joint family system, as urbanization and migration continue to grow, families are becoming smaller and many elderly persons find themselves isolated, emotionally, physically and financially vulnerable,” Jamir said.
He said that the shift from joint families to nuclear families has left many senior citizens without the support they once enjoyed from their extended families.
“This isolation is not just emotional; it also manifests in the increasing demand for healthcare services. With increasing life expectancy, age-related conditions such as dementia require specialized healthcare service. It is therefore, imperative that we adapt our health care systems and expands geriatric care facilities to meet these emerging needs,” Jamir said.
Stating that the senior citizens have built the foundation of the world we live in today, Jamir said “It is our duty to ensure that their later years are secure, respected and fulfilling.”
“Let us work collectively to build an inclusive society where older persons are valued, supported and empowered- where they continue to live not in isolation, but in dignity, with respect and care,” the secretary added.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Imkongzenla, joint director social welfare while presentation of award was led by Akali Sema, assistant director. SCAN president Dr. Pihoto I. Khala shared jubilee greetings. Senior Citizens Fellowship of the Chakhesang Baptist Church Kohima presented a special number while vote of thanks was proposed by Sorenthung C. Kikon, deputy director.
AWARDEES
Neidonuo Angami: A veteran social activist Neidonuo Angami was the recipient of Padmashri Award (Social Service) in 2000 by President of India.
She handled various issues in national and international level on women and youth empowerment, handloom and handicrafts units, drugs and alcohol abuse, HIV/AIDS prevention, care and support and peace initiatives.
She was nominated for 1000 women under” Global Women Project” for Nobel Peace Prize in 2005.
She got Lifetime achievement award from the Chief Minister of Nagaland in 2007 on International Women Day and Lifetime Achievement Award from Gandhi Yog in 2009, New Delhi on the occasion of International Conference of Gandhi Yog and Global Peace and recipient of A. Kevichusa Citizenship Award 2022.
She was the first batch of Women Police in Nagaland as Sub Inspector in 1969. Founder member and former president of Nagaland Weaver’s Association (1989-1991), founder member and first secretary of Naga Mothers’ Association (1984- 1991), president Naga Mothers’ Association (1994-2003), founder member of Friends of 80 Plus (2006), founder member Cancer Survivor Fellowship Kohima ( 2002), Project Coordinator of North East India for Kripa Foundation Mumbai ( 1991-94), chairperson NMA HIV & AIDS Care Hospice Projects Board ( 2001-2007).
Participations and & work experiences: Indo- Naga Peace process consultations in Nagaland, New Delhi and Bangkok, Thailand (1999- 2002), Creator of Peace Conference Panchgani, India (2000),International HIV/AIDS conference, Mumbai as a resource person (2000), Participant at South Asia Strengthening Women Peace building workshop, Kathmandu, Nepal (2001), Invited by National Peace Council of Sri Lanka to share experiences and skills with the women group (2002), Regional workshop on ‘women and violent conflict in South Asia, Colombo, Sri Lanka (2004), Meetings with various Naga National workers all over Naga Inhabited areas including Eastern Nagaland (Myanmar) for peace reconciliation work.
Rev Dr L Anjo Keikung: From a school teacher in Longleng to Chancellor of North East Christian University, Rev Dr L Anjo Keikung journey reflects a lifetime of commitment to education, mission and community transformation.
He served as General Secretary of Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), Director of Nagaland Mission Movement, Executive Secretary, Phom Baptist Christian Association, member of Nagaland Public Service Commission and served as Chancellor-cum-Chief Executive Director, North East Christian University.
He played a key role in establishing Yingli College. He was at the forefront of the Leprosy Eradication Movement, making his community Leprosy- free by 1996.
While serving as Director Nagaland Mission Movement, he Co-funded the “Serving in Mission” North East India at Shillong.
He coordinated with different Civil Societies of the Community, Political Leaders and State Government for the creation of Longleng District from 2001- 2004.
During his tenure as General Secretary NBCC, one tangible and helpful project for the people of Nagaland was the construction of NBCC Convention Centre in Kohima.
At present, Rev. is a member of the Board of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association India.
He represented India at the Asia Pacific Baptist Fellowship, Baptist World Alliance and American Baptist Churches Conference, strengthening global ties of faith and mission.
Rev. Dr. Keikung’s legacy is one of vision, courage and faithful service that has transformed countless life and strengthened both the church and society.
