HT Correspondent
HOJAI, Jan 31: The 11th annual mid-term conference of the Assam Senior Citizens’ Association, the sole government-recognised body representing citizens aged 60 and above in the state, concluded recently at the Sahityarathi Bezbarua Bhawan in Hojai. Over 700 delegates from across Assam participated, adding grandeur to the event.
The proceedings began with a health consultation and medicine distribution camp for senior citizens, organised under the aegis of the Assam Senior Citizens’ Association and the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment at Hojai Girls’ College. The camp was inaugurated by Hojai MLA Ramkrishna Ghosh, who encouraged the elderly attendees to embrace a healthy lifestyle through regular yoga practice.
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The conference was inaugurated with a ceremonial flag-hoisting. President Baneshwar Khaund unfurled the association’s flag, while ten additional flags were hoisted by heads of thematic departments and distinguished committee members. This was followed by a solemn memorial observance, where executive president Prithuram Barua lit sacred lamps and offered floral tributes. Reverential homage was paid to late Dr Bhupen Hazarika and Zubeen Garg in front of their portraits.
Under the chairmanship of Baneshwar Khaund, the general body ratified the annual activity report, editorial summary and audited accounts of the preceding year. Detailed deliberations took place on the 17-point charter of demands submitted to the state administration, leading to the formulation of future action plans.
The inaugural plenary session was presided over by Lumding MLA Sibu Mishra. Chief Guest Dr Pradip Thakuria highlighted state-sponsored welfare initiatives for senior citizens and urged members to foster greater cohesion and utilize available governmental amenities.
During the event, the souvenir ‘Biyoli-Vaibhav’ edited by Anima Barua, was unveiled by former president and educationist Suresh Saikia. A poetry volume by veteran litterateur Kalpana Devi Goswami and a novel by Padmakant Bora were released by Dr Sharat Barkatoki, former Principal of Nagaon Mahavidyalaya.
The conference also honoured 12 distinguished Hojai residents for their exemplary contributions to society, education and culture.
