• Dr. Lalhriatzuali IAS

Director

Social Welfare & Tribal Affairs Department

• Mr. Lalthangmawia

Chairman

Mission Foundation Movement

• Director, officials and staff of MFM

• Invitees, dear friends

I am very happy to be with you today at the Graduation Ceremony of Geriatric Caregivers under the Mission Foundation Movement.

I have been told that MFM is a non-profit organization established in 2004, with a dedicated focus on accelerating skill development, community health, senior citizens, women empowerment, para-medical institutions, and overall livelihood promotion.

I appreciate that MFM's mission is to serve people irrespective of their tribe, caste, ethnicity, or religion.

I understand that MFM is currently engaged in 19 ongoing projects under various Ministries of Government of India, and US AID. These projects reflect MFM's commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities, and improving the well-being of those it serves.

In January 2021, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment issued a nationwide Expression of Interest for the establishment of Regional Resource Training Centres (RRTC), dedicated to Senior Citizens in the North East region.

Remarkably, 140 organizations from across the country responded to this call.

The Ministry conducted extensive field verification and evaluation at both state and central levels, resulting in the selection of MFM as the Implementing Agency for RRTC, covering Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram.

In pursuit of this project, MFM submitted an Annual Action Plan for these four target states to the National Institute of Social Defense, under the Ministry of Social Justice. This led to the approval of the RRTC project for Mizoram, which offered a 'Three-Month Certificate Course for Geriatric Caregivers' in Aizawl.

The initial batch consisted of 25 participants, who, upon completing the three-month training, had the opportunity for a one-month On Job Training at Aizawl Hospital.

Furthermore, the students were given exposure visits to hospital settings and old-age homes to enhance their skills and gain knowledge from experienced professionals.

The primary objective of this training is to equip participants with a deep understanding of geriatric care concepts, essential care giving skills, and practical experience in providing fundamental geriatric care.

After completion of the training, the participants will be prepared to work in various settings, including private households in need of specialized elderly care, hospitals, and home-based care.

I have also learnt that some trainees are ready to explore international placements in countries like Singapore and Malaysia.

I have noted that the youth of North East India, and especially those of Mizoram, have excellent potential in the caregiving sector.

As we all know, nurses from this region are in great demand across the country.

The youth of this region are blessed with the skill sets required for caregiving, including compassion and empathy.

I urge you to look for gainful employment not only in Mizoram, but also across the country and beyond.

I congratulate MFM for successfully conducting these courses, and I encourage you to keep up the good work.

I am delighted to see that our youth are pursuing such noble professions, which ensure quality of life for senior citizens.

I thank everyone involved in this regard, and I wish you all continued success in your future endeavours.

Thank you. Jai Hind.