Nilnag, SEPTEMBER 3: The Senior Citizens Council, Ahata Waqar, Chanpora, Srinagar, organised an outreach environmental awareness programme at the historic freshwater lake of Nilnag in Budgam on Wednesday, aimed at promoting environmental preservation and providing senior citizens an opportunity for social, cultural and mental engagement in a natural setting.
The programme also focused on addressing loneliness, depression and social isolation among the elderly through shared interests, community interaction and outdoor activities.
Renowned poet, satirist and literary figure Zareef Ahmad Zareef was the chief guest, while veteran activist and freedom fighter from Chadoora, Khawaja Mohammad Akram Raina, was the guest of honour.
The event was attended by Prof. Naseem Shafai, former Radio Kashmir Director Rukhsana Jabeen, former Doordarshan Kashmir Director Shabbir Mujahid, Chairman Islamic Relief & Research Trust Adv. Abdul Rashid Hanjura, Mushtaq Shah Mehram, social reformer Qurat ul Ain, Prof. Shafeeqa Parveen, Prof. Hawa Bashir, Dr Sujaan Kaur, Arifat Jan, Dr Laila Sultana of the Health Department Kashmir, Mymoona Akhter of the Social Welfare Department Srinagar, Sana Hamid and Altaf Ahmad Sofi of the District Legal Services Authority Srinagar, Showkat Ahmad Raina and environmentalist Syed Farhat, District Nodal Officer Budgam, JKEW.
During the programme, Ahata Waqar honoured Khawaja Mohammad Akram Raina with an Award of Appreciation (Tousee Sanad) in recognition of his lifelong social and political contributions. Mementos were also presented to Zareef Ahmad Zareef and other dignitaries.
Welcoming the participants, Ahata Waqar Chairman Abdul Ghani Parray emphasised the important role senior citizens can play in guiding society and addressing social issues, including drug abuse and moral decline.
Zareef Ahmad Zareef highlighted the health and psychological benefits of outdoor programmes for senior citizens, saying regular group activities can help reduce cognitive decline, combat depression and provide elders with a renewed sense of purpose.
Adv. Abdul Rashid Hanjura said community outreach programmes help restore confidence, belonging and self-worth among senior citizens. He also stressed the importance of creating platforms where elders can receive information on healthcare management and financial independence.
Rukhsana Jabeen emphasised the need for environmental protection and greater support for marginalised sections of society. She also encouraged young people to take up constructive roles as writers, thinkers and social reformers.
The organisers said the outreach initiative sought to combine environmental awareness with the social and psychological well-being of senior citizens, while encouraging greater community engagement with natural spaces.
