News Flash
KHULNA, Oct 7, 2025 (BSS) - Speakers at a discussion here today emphasized that protecting the rights of elderly people is a shared social responsibility.
"Elderly citizens are not a burden to society; they are our pride," they said, adding that the country owes much of its progress to the contribution of the labor and wisdom of older people.
Speakers made the remarks at a meeting marking the 35th International Day of Older Persons held at the conference room of the Khulna District Social Services Office.
The theme of the day this year is "Older persons are the driving force of local and global actions: Our ambition, our well-being, and our rights."
Organized by the Social Services Office, Director of the Divisional Social Services Office Anindita Roy attended the event as the chief guest.
Officials noted that the government has strengthened the social safety net for older citizens. Elderly homes have been established in all eight divisions, and currently about 6.1 million senior citizens receive old-age allowances.
According to the United Nations, the global elderly population stands at 1.2 billion and is expected to reach 2 billion by 2050. Bangladesh currently has around 13 million elderly citizens, a number projected to reach 18 million by 2026.
Deputy Director of the District Social Services Office Kaniz Mostafa presided over the meeting. Additional District Magistrate Dipankar Das and former Jashore Education Board Chairman Professor Md Saidul Hasan addressed the event as special guests.
Elderly participants also shared their views during the event.
At the end of the ceremony, walking sticks were distributed among ten senior citizens.
To mark the occasion, a daylong free medical camp was also organized at the District Social Services Office.
Earlier, a colorful rally was brought out from Khulna Railway Station premises, parading through different city streets before concluding at the Social Services Office compound.
People from various walks of life took part in the procession.
