Six villages, 26 schools in Mon declared tobacco-free

DIMAPUR — In a significant development towards curbing tobacco consumption, as many as six villages in Mon -- Changlangshu, Bumei, Chanhlangshu Changsa, Chi, Chi Guhching and Tugam -- have been declared tobacco-free, marking what is believed to be a first.

Additionally, a total of 26 schools from Naginimora, Leangha, Lampong Sheangha, Chi, Changlanshu, etc. were also declared tobacco-free.

This was announced during the District-Level Coordination Committee meeting (DLCC) chaired by Wennyei Konyak, DC Mon, in the DC conference hall on Friday, informed an update received here on the same day.

Medezer Foundation Trust Office became the first office in Mon district to be declared tobacco-free and Manthenian Education Institute also followed suit, it added.

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Speaking at the meeting, the DC urged village council members to become ambassadors for a tobacco-free village and inspire other villages to follow their example. He also advised the villages and schools not to entirely depend on the administration and the district control team but to initiate measures in their own capacities to achieve tobacco-free status in their respective areas.

Dr. Esther Chophy, District Nodal Officer, NTCP, expressed gratitude to the Village Council members for acknowledging the harmful effects of tobacco and banning its sale within their villages, while encouraging them to continue their good work for the welfare of the villagers.

Also acknowledging the contribution of all the school authorities and teachers for maintaining tobacco-free environment, she said it is very important for the healthy growth of school children.

Chairman of Chi and Chi Guhching village, and head GB of Changlangshu village also shared the positive measures they initiated to ban the sale of tobacco items in their villages.

The update informed that Thinoneisie, DEO; Bendangwati Ao, SDPO; Dr. Tialila, Principal Wankhao College; Nyeaming, District Consultant NTCP; representatives from DPRO; school authorities, etc. attended the meeting.