Dimapur, April 8 (EMN): With more than 57% population tobacco users in Nagaland which stands second next to Mizoram according to GATS 2010 survey, steps are being taken to curb tobacco menace especially with the inception of tobacco Control Laws in the form of COTPA 2003.
This was informed during a one-day sensitisation seminar for women community on harmful effect of tobacco and COTPA Act 2003 on April 8 at LTC hall, Wokha. The sensitisation seminar was organised by District Tobacco Control Cell, Wokha, in collaboration with Department of Health & Family Welfare.
Chief guest and EAC (Judicial) Wokha, T Kupa, said use of tobacco can be prevented with proper awareness among the public. He, therefore, urged the gathering to sensitize the public on the harmful effects of tobacco consumption.
Delivering the key note address, District Nodal Officer, Wokha (NTCP) Dr. Merebini Odyuo termed it worrisome that more than half of Nagaland population are tobacco users (57%) which stand as the second highest consumer of tobacco next to Mizoram according to GATS 2010 survey.
She, however, said that steps are being taken to curb tobacco menace especially with the inception of tobacco Control Laws in the form of COTPA 2003. She said more people are now aware and advocating smoke free or tobacco free surrounding. She also informed that NTCP team, Wokha, is working in creating awareness about the ills of tobacco amongst the society and have conducted awareness programmes in 26 schools, training and sensitisation programmes in the churches, towns and nearby villages. She further added that more of such programmes are on the pipeline.
Dr. Pithungo Kikon, MO, Wokha, also spoke on tobacco and women’s health, while Kimiri Tungoe (WDLSA) and Abeni Kikon dwelled on COTPA Act 2003 and role of women in society.
The function was chaired by Mharoni Ezong, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Ruutsome Savino.
