In a heartfelt tribute to the wisdom and resilience of India’s elders, the Government of Odisha marked Senior Citizens’ Day 2025 with a grand state-level celebration at Rabindra Mandap in Bhubaneswar.
The event, organised by the Department of Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD), underscored the pivotal contributions of senior citizens in fostering a healthy, progressive society.
Chief Guest Nityananda Gond, Minister for SSEPD, opened the proceedings by dedicating the day not just as a one-off recognition but as a daily commitment to honouring elders. “Senior citizens are invaluable sources of knowledge and experience. Their wisdom and guidance are immensely helpful in building and developing a healthy society,” Gond remarked. He highlighted their indispensable role in achieving the vision of a ‘Developed India’ and positioning the nation as a ‘Vishwaguru’ (global leader).
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the elderly, the Minister assured that the government is proactively implementing measures to address them, urging the younger generation to draw inspiration, blessings, and practical insights from seniors across all sectors.
The event drew dignitaries, including Bhubaneswar (Ekamra) MLA Babu Singh as Guest of Honour, who emphasised collective societal responsibility. “We must always remember that elderly people are not a burden. By moving forward with their experience, ideals, and blessings, we can lead a life of happiness and peace,” Singh stated, reinforcing the bonds of love and respect that unite generations. He called for ensuring social and economic security for seniors as a shared duty.
ବିଭାଗର ସ୍ୱତନ୍ତ୍ର ଶାସନ ସଚିବ ଶ୍ରୀମତୀ ରଜନୀ ଜାନି ପ୍ରମୁଖ ବରିଷ୍ଠ ନାଗରିକଙ୍କ ଉଦ୍ଦେଶ୍ୟରେ ନିଜର ମୂଲ୍ୟବାନ ବକ୍ତବ୍ୟ ପ୍ରଦାନ କରିବା ସହିତ, ସମସ୍ତଙ୍କ ସହ ଆଲୋଚନା କରିଥିଲେ । #SSEPD #OlderPersonsDay@CMO_Odisha @PravatiPOdisha @KVSinghDeo1 @NityanandaBJP @bmcbbsr @babusinghodisha pic.twitter.com/576tKe6E6p
— SSEPD (@SSEPD2) October 10, 2025
Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Chanchal Rana, also a Guest of Honour, focused on practical support. He noted that while seniors often encounter minor yet impactful issues, community collaboration can resolve them effectively. “The BMC always gives priority to addressing the issues of senior citizens,” Rana said, spotlighting initiatives like the Bayo Bandana Yojana for welfare and free health service centres across the city to meet medical needs.
The welcome address was delivered by Special Secretary Smt. Rajani Jani, who poetically reframed ageing: “Age 60 is not just a number; it symbolises a wealth of experience. Senior citizens are revered members of our society. The present generation cannot afford to dismiss them as outdated, conservative, or irrelevant.”
Beyond speeches, the program engaged attendees through interactive sessions on financial literacy, digital literacy, and cyber safety, empowering seniors to navigate modern challenges. A vibrant cultural performance by the Shwetapadma Sangeetalaya Cultural Trust added a festive touch, celebrating the richness of Odia heritage.
Additional Secretary Shri Deepak Routrai extended the vote of thanks, while Punyashloka Priyadarshini coordinated the seamless event. A diverse audience, including numerous senior citizens, intellectuals, departmental officers, and representatives from voluntary organisations, filled the venue, fostering a sense of community.
The day’s activities kicked off early with a Yoga Camp at Indira Gandhi Park, led by noted comedian Debu Brahma. He enthralled participants with humour while explaining yoga’s benefits: “Practice yoga regularly for mental and physical well-being,” Brahma advised, blending entertainment with wellness guidance. Complementing this, a free health check-up camp provided essential medical screenings, ensuring holistic care for the elderly.
Senior officials present included Additional Secretary Shri Deepak Routrai, Shri Bhaskar Raito, Smt. Sonia Behera, Financial Advisor Smt. Jayashree Tripathy, and Deputy Secretary Shri Basanta Kumar Behera, among others.
As Odisha sets an example in elder care, the celebration serves as a reminder that true progress lies in valuing the past to shape a brighter future.
