DLCC of the District Tobacco Control Cell, Kohima during its quarterly meeting held at the DC Office Chamber, Kohima on June 10.
Kohima, June 10 (MExN): The District Level Coordination Committee (DLCC) of the District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC), Kohima, held its quarterly meeting on Wednesday at the Deputy Commissioner's Office to review tobacco control measures, enforcement mechanisms and inter-departmental coordination.
The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Kohima B Henok Buchem, deliberated on issues relating to tobacco control, licensing, enforcement and implementation of relevant regulations.
The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the need to seek clarification from the state government regarding tobacco vendor licensing and the prohibition of certain tobacco-related products.
The committee discussed promoting public awareness through signages in municipal areas, villages, schools and commercial establishments highlighting that tobacco products are harmful and prohibited in designated areas. Members stressed that awareness campaigns should be backed by regular enforcement.
The committee also resolved to update the district tobacco control task force by including the Food Safety Officer and to explore the formation of similar enforcement teams in subdivisions and villages.
Expressing concern that the existing penalty of Rs 200 for tobacco-related violations is inadequate to deter offenders, the members decided to take up the matter with the state government for consideration of enhanced penalties and stricter action against repeat violators. The possibility of cancelling the trade licences of habitual offenders was also discussed.
Kohima Food Safety Officer Samlam clarified that the prohibition order applies only to food products containing tobacco or nicotine as ingredients and does not cover cigarettes or other standalone tobacco products. She added that products such as pan masala are not prohibited unless tobacco or nicotine is mixed with them.
District Education Officer Kohima Emilo informed the meeting that schools are being directed to appoint Enforcement Officers and Health and Wellness Ambassadors to strengthen tobacco control measures. Schools will also be required to submit regular reports on action taken to prevent tobacco use within and around educational institutions. The Deputy Commissioner directed that monthly reports be reviewed in future DLCC meetings.
A presentation on the activities of the District Tobacco Control Cell was made by DTCC social worker Achila Walling.
During the meeting, tobacco-free certificates were awarded to Bethel School, Chiechama, and Government Middle School, Chiecha Centre, Kohima.
