Different tobacco products on display for sale in a shop in Dimapur. Nagaland is one of the highest users of pan masala and tobacco. (Morung Photo)
Phek, May 19 (MExN): The consumption of tobacco products appears to be a matter of great concern in Nagaland as the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) reveals ‘43% of students in Nagaland between 13 to 15 years of age used tobacco products, which is one of the highest in the country.’
This was highlighted by Dr Chiekroshuyi Tetseo, Additional Director, State Nodal Officer, NTCP DHFW Kohima during the training of stakeholders for implementation of Tobacco Free Educational Institutions (TOFEI) at District Hospital, Phek on May 18.
It was organised by the District Tobacco Control Cell, National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP), Phek, stated a press release issued by Kutolu Nakro, District Media Officer, NHM Phek.
The training was held with the objectives to bring greater awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and Tobacco Control Laws and facilitate effective implementation of TOFEI by all schools in the District.
Dr Tetseo in his presentation on ‘implementation of TOFEI’ highlighted the school authority on the display of mandatory signage to be put up by the schools. He emphasized on the burden of tobacco epidemic which is the biggest cause of preventable deaths and diseases which kills nearly 13 lakh people in India every year and also a major cause of economic hardship especially among the low income groups.
According to the present tobacco scenario, Dr Tetseo presented that Nagaland is one of the highest user of pan masala and tobacco, and highest average monthly on cigarettes. “Tobacco habit is making our people insensitive to civic sense and hygiene,” he said.
He added that educational institutions are the best platform to create awareness about the danger of tobacco use.
Therefore, he called upon the teachers to make all the schools Tobacco Free, stating that protecting the children from tobacco use is the only way to bring down the tobacco prevalence in our society.
Linoka K Awomi, DTCC Consultant, NTCP presented the Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products (COTPA) act 2003 its objectives, enforcement mechanism etc. She highlighted the mandate of Section 6 (b) and its penalties, section 77 of Juvenile Justice Act and its penalties etc. On the implementation of Tobacco Control Laws it was deliberated and emphasized was given on the roles of police personnel.
Earlier, the training was chaired by Dr Nichukholie Vupru, DNO, NTCP Phek, where he highlighted the different awareness programmes and activities under its NTCP been carried out in the District.
He also shared about the counselling facility at Tobacco Control Cell Phek and the availability of Nicotine Replacement Therapy for those desiring to quit tobacco.
