The Department of Social Welfare Poonch organised a ‘Senior Sammaan Samaroh’ (Senior Citizen Meet) today to honour the contribution of senior citizens to society. The event witnessed participation from elderly citizens, officers, health experts and civil society members.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp followed by the National Anthem. District Social Welfare Officer Poonch Khalil A Banday delivered the welcome address, highlighting the event's objectives and reiterating the department’s commitment to the welfare and empowerment of senior citizens.
Deputy Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Senior Superintendent of Police Poonch Shafket Hussain Bhat was also present and appreciated the department's initiative. Dr Anu Bhardwaj from HIIMS delivered a guest lecture on age-related health issues.
She gave a presentation on preventive healthcare, lifestyle management and early diagnosis of common ailments affecting the elderly. An interactive session followed, during which Dr Bhardwaj addressed queries from the participants. Senior citizens were felicitated with shawls and warm bottles were distributed to ensure their comfort during the winter.
Banks supported the initiative by providing warm bottles to marginalised senior citizens, while the Ayush Department distributed free medicines. Singer Master Kartar Chand performed during the event. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner noted that this was the first Senior Citizen Meet organised by the Social Welfare Department in the district.
He congratulated the department and emphasised the need to continue efforts to safeguard the dignity and health of the elderly. The Deputy Commissioner also handed over Senior Citizen Certificates to five beneficiaries. Prominent attendees included ADC Tahir Mustafa Malik, ACR Muhammad Sayeed, CMO Dr Parvaiz, Principal GDC Poonch Dr Jasbir Singh, DTO Haneef Tantray, District Officer Ayush, LDM and Tehsildar Haveli Azhar Majid.
Several prominent citizens, including retired officials and civil society representatives were also present. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by District Social Welfare Officer Khalil A Banday.