Rajouri, Feb 5: A landmark convention of pensioners and civil society leaders from Poonch and Rajouri districts was held on Wednesday at Dak Bangla Rajouri under the leadership of Abdul Qayoom Wani, Chairman of Jammu & Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF) and President of Jammu & Kashmir Pensioners United Front (JKPUF).
The event witnessed the participation of hundreds of pensioners and senior citizens from across the region, along with top leaders from Kashmir and Jammu divisions.
The convention aimed at fostering unity among pensioners and senior citizens, addressing their grievances, and reinforcing their role in social reformation. The attendees were warmly welcomed by the district presidents of Rajouri and Poonch, and the event became a powerful forum for discussing key issues faced by pensioners and society at large.
Addressing the gathering, Abdul Qayoom Wani emphasized the invaluable role of pensioners and senior citizens in shaping a just and progressive society. He remarked,
“Pensioners and senior citizens are the storage of wisdom and vision, having a vital role in social reformation. Their collective strength can drive positive change and uphold societal values.” The convention strongly advocated for communal harmony and unity in diversity, stressing the importance of universal brotherhood and respect for all religions.
Beyond pension-related concerns, the convention focused on pressing social issues, particularly the menace of drug abuse. Wani called for a united front against social evils, urging civil society members and parents to play an active role in monitoring youth activities and guiding them towards a responsible life.
“It is our collective responsibility to initiate a practical fight against drug abuse, social evils, and moral degradation. Parents must remain vigilant about their children’s daily activities and social circles,” Wani asserted.
The convention also underscored the long-pending demands of pensioners and senior citizens, urging the government to take immediate action. Wani cautioned the authorities against testing the patience of this experienced and wise segment of society, emphasizing that their demands are legitimate and long overdue.
Reaffirming the commitment of JKCSF and JKPUF to the welfare of pensioners, senior citizens, and the general public, Wani assured that both organizations will continue to raise their voice on vital social, environmental, cultural, economic, and political issues affecting the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
He praised the efforts of the district leadership of Rajouri and Poonch for organizing the event successfully and expressed gratitude to delegates from Kashmir and Jammu divisions for their active participation. He also lauded the patience and enthusiasm of participants who had traveled from far-off areas of these border districts.
The historic convention at Dak Bangla Rajouri marked a new chapter in the empowerment of pensioners and senior citizens in Jammu & Kashmir. With JKCSF and JKPUF at the forefront, the event reinforced the need for unity, social responsibility, and proactive engagement in addressing key issues affecting society.
The momentum gained from this gathering is expected to drive meaningful reforms and stronger advocacy for the cause of pensioners and civil society members in the future.
