EKHON, October 2, 2025
Ukhrul: Over 200 elders from 37 village units of the Tangkhul Kharar Long gathered at the TTA Smart Hall, Hamleikhong Hungpung, Ukhrul district, to celebrate the ‘11th Haori Haorang Rarkhamabingwui Zimiksho Khamayon’ / International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2025. The event was jointly organized by the Tangkhul Kharar Long, District Social Welfare Office Ukhrul, and Service for Elders (SFE).
The theme of the celebration was “Older voices driving local and global action: Our aspirations, Our well-being, Our rights.” The occasion featured singing of age-old folk songs from different villages, with the elders enjoying light bantering and reminiscing about their peers who have passed on.
Joseph Keishing, Commandant CFPR (Retired), graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Speaking to EKHON, Yangmi Shimray, Project Officer, Service For Elders (SFE), shared about SFE, under the Compassion in Action Ministries of Berean Medical Association (CIAM-BMA)’s tireless efforts since 2006 to support the elderly, providing physical, mental, and spiritual care. The initiative is aimed at empowering seniors to experience aging with dignity, purpose, and fulfillment and building a support network of local churches, communities, leaders, and youth to care for the elderly.
SFE’s initiatives have led to the formation of Tangkhul Kharar Long (TKL) and Village Level Kharar Long (VKL), which have improved the mental health of the elderly and tapped into their potential. The organization’s work has inspired stories of elderly individuals making significant contributions to their communities. Notable examples include the late K. Mahangthei (Hungpung), an 84-year-old retired pastor who helped produce Tangkhul folk song audio compositions, and Shimkhayei Vashum (Talui), a 73-year-old master of indigenous trumpet blowing who is sharing his expertise with others.
With 37 active Village Level Kharar Long (VKL) units in the district, the initiative has brought hope and support to numerous elderly individuals. The organization is guided by the principle that “Service to man is service to God” and invites others to join them in serving the elderly with dedication.
Appreciating the formation of the elder’s forum, M Pious, President of Upper Hungpung Kharar Long said it has been a breakthrough for seniors in the community. Prior to its establishment, many elderly individuals were isolated, lonely, and depressed, with little to do but sit idly at home. However, the Kharar Long has brought vibrancy and dignity to their lives, providing a sense of purpose and community, he noted.
He further encouraged his fellow seniors to share authentic stories with the younger generation, emphasizing the importance of honesty and accuracy in passing down experiences and traditions.
In a parallel celebration, Dungrei Shanao Long organized the International Old Age Day for Upper Hungpung Kharar Long, gifting blankets and towels to members and fostering a sense of community and care.
