A consultative discussion on State Policy on Older Persons of Ladakh themed, ‘Working towards an Age Friendly Ladakh’ was held at HelpAge India, Shey on September 3. Chairman/CEC, LAHDC, Leh, Tashi Gyalson presided as the chief guest.

The consultative discussion began with an inaugural address by the Guest of Honour Commissioner Secretary, Social and Tribal Welfare, UT Ladakh, Padma Angmo.
The panel discussion witnessed viewpoints from concerned stakeholders, experts and community representatives. These included Director, Social and Tribal Welfare, UT Ladakh, Tashi Dolma; Councillor, Thiksey, Stanzin Chosfail and Former Chief Secretary, J&K, Chewang Phuntsog (IAS). The panel highlighted the need for a state policy for the older persons of Ladakh. It included discussion points like reimagining eldercare, working towards an age-friendly Ladakh, and what kind of facilities the elderly in Ladakh need.

The draft formulation discussion included field-level experiences, community representatives' suggestions, and data and research insights on elderly issues by HOD, Department of Social Work, Ladakh University, and Dr Jigmat Deachen. Additionally, Director MIMC, Leh, Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena and President, PAGIR, Tsewang Dorjey presented their inputs on the catalytic role of local civil societies in eldercare.

CEC Tashi Gyalson in his address highlighted the importance and need for a policy for the elderly of Ladakh and thanked the panelists for their valuable inputs in drafting a much-needed state policy for the elderly. Further, he assured the full support of LAHDC, Leh, and underscored the upcoming schemes by the Council towards providing for the elderly. Additionally, he suggested that all the stakeholders can work collaboratively to provide for the elderly so that there is maximum efficiency which will help in providing the best facilities to the elderly.