World No Tobacco Day Observed Across Nagaland Districts
June 1, 2024: World No Tobacco Day was observed across the districts of Nagaland yesterday under the theme “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interferences.” In Dimapur, the District Tobacco Control Cell held an event with school students at Chakhro Public Organization Hall, Chümoukedima.
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Chumoukedima, Veni Vese, expressed alarm at the high number of children in Nagaland consuming tobacco and tobacco products. He emphasized the importance of strictly enforcing the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COPTA) 2003, which prohibits easy access to tobacco for children, and called for intensive awareness campaigns to combat this issue.
Dr. Japheth Yepthomi from District Hospital Dimapur highlighted that Nagaland ranks third in India for tobacco consumption. He educated the students on leading a tobacco-free life and the crucial role of youth in fighting against tobacco use.
Similar programs were also conducted by District Tobacco Control Cells in Longleng, Mon, and Kiphire, emphasizing the widespread commitment to tackling tobacco use in the region.