Along with the rest of the world, ‘World Population Day’ under the theme ‘Universal access to reproductive health services’ was observed in Longleng district hospital organized by the Family Planning Association of India (FPAI), Nagaland branch in collaboration with the State Health Society (NRHM), Department of Health and Family Welfare, Nagaland with Japheth Woch SDO (Sadar) Longleng as the chief guest.
Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest while lauding the initiatives of FPAI Nagaland branch for organizing the programme, said it was the duty of every citizen to act and bring positive changes in the society so that the future generation may live healthy and responsible citizen.
He said due to the rapid growth in human population today, many disadvantages such as poverty, unemployment and pollution etc., were being faced by each and every one of us.
“As the world population has crossed 7 billion, it is important that one realizes and put an effort to bring healthier and problem free lives”, he said.
He also said that with the observance of ‘World population day’, one need to work closely to eradicate the problem that hampers the very existence of healthier life, by understanding the importance of proper family planning including gender equality, maternal health etc.
Japheth urged the gathering to be role models and to take up steps in educating the people for building a healthy life.
Others who spoke on the occasion were deputy director health and family welfare Dr. Kekameren, ex-minister Metpong Phom, and general secretary Phom Peoples’ Council Chingdam Phom, while Dr. Supongmeren spoke on the theme.
Earlier, welcome address was delivered by Vincent Belho, branch manager FPAI, Nagaland branch, invocation prayer by pastor Longleng town Baptist Church Beau Phom, special number by Mhonthung Tungoe and vote of thanks by deputy CMO Longleng Dr. Kongyan Phom. Kavili Achumi counselor, FPAI, Nagaland Branch compered the programme.
Also, coinciding with ‘World population day’, the department has been organizing ‘World stabilization fortnight’ from July 11-14, where free family planning services would be provided.