‘Elders deserve better, let’s give them their rights to prevent neglect and abuse’

Srinagar, Oct 1: In a momentous event held today, the Moul Mouj Foundation honoured prominent individuals for their selfless service to society.

Mandip Kaur,  Masooda Yaseen and Nazifa Alvi were recognised for their unwavering dedication and commitment to the welfare of the community. These women, through their tireless efforts, have positively impacted countless lives, setting an inspiring example of service.

Prof. (Dr.) Parvaiz Ahmad Shah, a renowned neurologist, was honoured for his significant contributions to advancing geriatric medicine in Kashmir. In his address, Prof. Shah said, "I am proud of the tremendous work Dr Zubair Saleem is doing for elderly care. He was the first geriatric medicine student I trained. Geriatric medicine is still in its early stages in Kashmir and it is crucial for every medical college and hospital to establish geriatric departments." Notably, Prof. Shah mentored Dr Saleem during his specialisation and training at GMC Srinagar.

A dedicated session on late Muhammad Shafi Pandit was led by Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, Chairman of the GCC. He praised Pandit's immense contributions to societal development and senior welfare, describing him as a visionary leader.

Zareef Ahmad Zareef, a prominent Kashmiri poet, also spoke, highlighting Pandit’s key role in preserving Kashmiri heritage. In memory of Pandit, his children, Murad Pandit and Humaira Fazili, were honoured for their continued efforts in keeping his legacy alive. Ghulam Muhammad Wani also spoke on the occasion.

In addition, Adv. Isbah Qureshi, a PhD scholar at the University of Kashmir, delivered a powerful session on the legal landscape for senior citizens in India, with a special focus on Kashmir. She discussed the legal rights of seniors and the protections available to them, shedding light on how these rights can be exercised and upheld in the face of neglect or abuse.

Dr. Shakeel-ur-Rehman, speaking on the importance of the day, emphasised the Moul Mouj Foundation's role in academic and research initiatives, particularly co-organizing a three-day international conference on senior health in collaboration with GMC Srinagar. Dr. Zubair Saleem then provided a comprehensive overview of the Foundation's achievements in the past two months, detailing key milestones such as the establishment of outpatient clinics, home-based care services, telehealth consultations, and medical camps. He also highlighted the ongoing awareness campaign, #EldersDeserveBetter, aimed at addressing the abuse and neglect of senior citizens.

In a key announcement, Mir Tanvir, Regional Head of Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals, Srinagar, unveiled a partnership with the Moul Mouj Foundation to provide premium eye care services for seniors, offering special discounts and accepting Golden Cards for free treatment. This collaboration aims to enhance the health and well-being of elderly citizens.