Governor Patel Emphasizes Respect for Elders as a Pillar of India’s Cultural Heritage

Address at International Human Rights Day Program in Bhopal

Bhopal: Tuesday, December 10, 2024, Governor Mangubhai Patel highlighted the importance of respecting parents and elders, describing it as a cornerstone of India’s cultural heritage. Addressing a gathering at the International Human Rights Day event at the Administrative Academy, he underscored that values of respect and gratitude toward elders are instilled at home. Citing examples from the Ramayana, the Governor illustrated how these values have been integral to Indian traditions.

During the program, the Governor unveiled the Madhya Pradesh State Human Rights Commission’s publication, focusing on the theme, “Care, Security, Social Responsibility, Legal Safeguards, and Human Rights of Senior Citizens.”

Key Highlights from Governor Patel’s Address

• On Elderly Care: Governor Patel emphasized that elders should prioritize their health and nutrition as they age, and family members must foster sensitivity and gratitude toward them.
• On Human Rights: Calling human rights “natural rights,” he stressed their role in ensuring dignity, respect, and safety for all individuals. He urged society, along with the government, to ensure the accessibility of these rights to the marginalized and underprivileged sections of society.
• Role of the Commission: He praised the State Human Rights Commission for its efforts in protecting the rights of the vulnerable, particularly the elderly, while also guiding the government and society.

Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla on the Value of Elders

Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla reiterated the cultural significance of respecting elders, describing senior citizens as the “living encyclopedias” of society. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for extending the benefits of the Ayushman Bharat Scheme to citizens aged 70 years and above.

Key Points from His Speech:

• Elders may face physical frailty, but their wisdom is invaluable.
• Youth should seek guidance from elders and respect their presence, which strengthens families and enriches society.
• A culture rooted in respect and gratitude toward elders is essential for India to reclaim its status as a global leader.

Insights from Acting Chairman of Human Rights Commission, Manohar Mamtani

Acting Chairman Manohar Mamtani elaborated on the economic, social, and legal challenges faced by the elderly in India. He highlighted the key issues, including:

1. Physical Weakness and health-related challenges.
2. Mental Health Issues and loneliness.
3. Economic Insecurity and the decline of joint family systems.
4. Lack of Recreational Opportunities.

Mamtani urged society to step up efforts for the care and protection of senior citizens, working alongside the government. He noted that the Commission has handled 1,343 cases, resolving 1,228 with government intervention. Additionally, 24 district-level camps have been organized for the speedy resolution of human rights cases.

Special Initiatives at the Event

1. A special Ayushman Bharat camp was organized, issuing health cards to citizens aged 70 and above. Deputy CM Shukla reviewed the camp and directed officials to ensure seamless services.
2. DGP (Complaints & Human Rights), D.C. Sagar, recited inspirational verses from Ramcharitmanas, emphasizing virtues such as courage, patience, truth, and compassion as essential qualities for an ideal individual.

Program Highlights and Recognition

The event also featured notable speeches by:

• Rajiv Kumar Tandon, Commission Member, who delivered the welcome address.
• Sonali Pokshe Vyangankar, Principal Secretary of Social Justice and Disability Welfare, who outlined welfare schemes for senior citizens.
• Rajesh Gupta, Director of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Good Governance, who detailed government initiatives for the elderly.

Governor Patel was felicitated with a plant and a memento by Acting Chairman Mamtani. Ashok Goyal, Inspector General of Police (Human Rights Commission), expressed gratitude to attendees.

The program was attended by dignitaries including J.N. Kansotia, Director General of Narohna Administrative Academy, judges, senior citizens, and officials from the Human Rights Commission.

Conclusion

The event underscored the collective responsibility of families, society, and the government in ensuring the welfare and dignity of senior citizens. Respect for elders was celebrated as both a cultural value and a social necessity, reinforcing the vision of an inclusive and harmonious society.

Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)

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