It is a weekday, and students are listening attentively to Narayan Poddar. Poddar, in his 60s, reminisces about studying in the past. This is not a typical classroom setting, as Poddar is not a teacher. However, Jamtara Deputy Commissioner Faiz Ahmed Mumtaz finds the lessons important.
Mumtaz believes that children can benefit from listening to the wisdom of seniors and that elders can feel loved and cared for by spending time with them. Poddar is the president of the Elder’s Club in Narayanpur block, Jamtara district. In 2021, the district administration renovated old buildings to create Elder’s Clubs in all six blocks of Jamtara.
The clubs provide a space for the elderly to come together, read, play games, and watch TV to combat loneliness and share their emotions. Mumtaz, an award-winning District Magistrate, notes the positive impact of these clubs on the mental health of the elderly population in Jamtara.
The renovation of each club building cost the administration Rs 3-3.5 lakh, with amenities like TVs and refrigerators being donated by the community. At the Narayanpur club, members take on tasks voluntarily, such as cleaning and gardening, while sharing stories and experiences.
Poddar emphasizes the importance of dialogue and understanding among members, fostering a sense of community and connection.
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