Panchbibi (Joypurhat) Correspondent:
With the theme “New Perspectives on Longevity,” a rally and discussion meeting were held in Panchbibi, Joypurhat, to observe the 36th International Day of Older Persons (2026). The discussion meeting took place on Wednesday (October 1) at 10:00 AM in the Upazila Parishad conference room, organized by the Upazila Administration and the Upazila Social Services Office. Afterward, a rally started from the Upazila Parishad premises and circled the area.
Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Kashpia Tasrin addressed the meeting as the chief guest, with Upazila Social Services Officer Md. Samsul Islam presiding over the event. Other speakers included Upazila BNP President Saiful Islam Dalim, senior citizen Taijul Islam, Bandhan NGO Director Shafiqul Alam Chowdhury Biplob, and journalist Akhtar Hossain Bokul. Also present were Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) Md. Nahid Hasan, Senior Upazila Fisheries Officer Mahmuda Khatun, Social Services Office Field Supervisor Rabiul Islam, Field Supervisors Md. Murad Islam (Kusumba Union and Municipality) and Deb Dulal Pahan (Atapur Union), as well as Atiqur Rahman, Mahabub Alam, Aminul Islam, and people from various walks of life, including senior citizens.
Speakers at the meeting emphasized that the elderly are not a burden on society; rather, they are repositories of experience, knowledge, and values accumulated over long lives. It is the moral responsibility of everyone to ensure proper respect, care, and social security for the elderly within both the family and society.
The elderly have made significant contributions to shaping today’s society and families. Their experiences serve as a guide for the new generation. Therefore, we must stand by the elderly during the final stages of their lives, alleviating their loneliness and addressing any neglect they may face. Highlighting various government initiatives, the speakers noted that the government is implementing several social safety net programs—including old-age allowances—for the welfare of the elderly. Alongside these programs, it is essential to ensure a dignified and safe environment for the elderly through the collective efforts of the family and society.