A mass checking drive was conducted across Zunheboto town on 16th June, 2025, under the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003. The operation was carried out by the District Administration in collaboration with the Drugs Control Administration, District No Tobacco Club with the assistance from the police personnel under supervision of Superintendent of Police, Zunheboto and DObashis.
The surprise inspection focused on areas within a 100-yard radius of school premises, in accordance with COTPA regulations which prohibit the sale of tobacco products in the vicinity of educational institutions. During the drive, several retail shops and vendors were inspected for illegal possession and sale of tobacco products.
Later, as a result of the mass surprise checking, sizable amount of tobacco related products were seized and disposed off in designated dumping zone and incinerated.
Supervising officials stated that the primary aim of the drive was to ensure a tobacco-free environment around educational institutions and to raise public awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption. They also warned that similar enforcement actions would continue in the future to maintain compliance with tobacco control laws.
(DPRO, Zunheboto)