03/09/2026
Organizes Outreach at Lake to Promote Elder Wellbeing
NILNAG (BUDGAM): The Senior Citizens Council, Ahata Waqar, Chanapora, organized a special outreach awareness program today at the historic freshwater lake, Nilnag. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about environmental preservation while offering senior citizens a meaningful platform for social, cultural, and mental engagement in a natural setting.
The program focused on helping elders combat loneliness, depression, and social isolation through shared interests, mutual connection, and outdoor activities.
Distinguished Guests & Participants:
• Chief Guest: Renowned poet, satirist, and literary figure, Zareef Ahmad Zareef.
• Guest of Honour: Veteran activist and freedom fighter from Chadoora, Khawaja Mohammad Akram Raina.
• Prominent Attendees: Prof. Naseem Shafai, Rukhsana Jabeen (former Director, Radio Kashmir), Shabbir Mujahid (former Director, Doordarshan Kashmir), Adv. Abdul Rashid Hanjura (Chairman, Islamic Relief & Research Trust), Mushtaq Shah Mehram, Qurat ul Ain (Social Reformer), Prof. Shafeeqa Parveen, Prof. Hawa Bashir, Dr. Sujaan Kaur, Arifat Jan, Showkat Ahmad Raina, and prominent environmentalist Syed Farhat.
During the ceremony, Ahata Waqar honored Khawaja Mohammad Akram Raina with an Award of Appreciation (Tousee Sanad) for his lifelong social and political contributions. Mementos were also presented to Chief Guest Zareef Ahmad Zareef and other dignitaries.
Key Remarks from the Event:
• Abdul Ghani Parray (Chairman, Ahata Waqar): Welcomed the guests and emphasized the indispensable role of senior citizens in guiding society. He noted that elders play a vital part in eradicating social evils, drug abuse, and moral decline from the community.
• Zareef Ahmad Zareef (Chief Guest): Highlighted the health and psychological benefits of outdoor outreach programs for seniors. He stated that regular group activities help reduce cognitive decline, combat depression, and provide a renewed sense of purpose.
• Adv. Abdul Rashid Hanjura: Expressed that community outreach restores confidence, belonging, and self-worth among elders. He stressed that such gatherings also serve as platforms to educate seniors on managing health care and financial independence effectively.
• Rukhsana Jabeen: Focused on environmental protection and extending support to marginalized sections of society. She encouraged the youth to pursue constructive roles as writers, thinkers, and social reformers.
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