The District-Level Co-ordination Committee of the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) conducted a review meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, Dimapur on 28th March 2025. The session focused on key issues concerning tobacco control initiatives in the district and reviewed progress made in the last two quarters.
The meeting was chaired by Yanthungbemo Kikon, NCS SDO (Civil), with Dr. N. Moa Jamir, District Nodal Officer, highlighting the COTPA Act 2003 and various tobacco control laws and penalties enforced in the state. He also emphasized the importance of tobacco cessation support, urging individuals to seek help at District Hospitals or CIHSR, Dimapur, or call the national helpline 1800-11-235.
A PowerPoint presentation outlined the achievements and challenges of the NTCP over the past two quarters. The 3rd and 4th Quarter Activity Report was presented, showcasing initiatives such as: Launch of 60 Days Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 2.0; 10 School Awareness Programmes; 9 Community Awareness Programmes; 2 COTPA Enforcement Drives and 10 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) on ToFEI Guidelines with Teachers.
One of the key highlights of the meeting was the declaration and distribution of Tobacco-Free Educational Institution (ToFEI) certificates to schools and colleges that have successfully implemented tobacco-free policies. The following institutions received the certificates: Touch of Hope School, Shokhuvi; GPS/GMS, Naga New Model (AO); The Family Tree School, Kushiabell; Carewell School, Dimapur; PM GMS, Showuba Old; Shalom Mission School, Doyapur; Blue Star School, Singrijan; Government High School, Molvom; Mount Mary Higher Secondary School, Chumoukedima and Dayanand Vidya Niketan.
The meeting also included discussions on the challenges in implementing the NTCP, with representatives from student unions and social organizations sharing insights on enforcement, public awareness, and policy execution. Future NTCP initiatives were also deliberated upon.
The meeting reaffirmed the district administration’s commitment to strengthening tobacco control measures and ensuring stricter enforcement of regulations.
The meeting was attended by various student organizations, representatives from social organizations and representatives from district offices.
(I.Tiakumla.Ao, IA, Dimapur)
