National Tobacco Control Programme reviewed in Pulwama

Pulwama, Dec 28: A District Level Coordination Committee meeting was today convened at the Administrative Complex Pulwama under the chairmanship of Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Pulwama, Dr Sheikh Abdul Aziz.

The primary agenda of the meeting was to review the implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) of 2003 and assess the strides made in the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) in district Pulwama.

Nodal officer NTCP, District Pulwama while addressing the attendees, provided a comprehensive overview of the National Tobacco Control Programme. He highlighted the directives issued in the previous meeting, emphasizing the detrimental effects of tobacco on health and its significant role in contributing to cancer and other non-communicable diseases. The discussion also encompassed key aspects of the COTPA Act of 2003.

ADDC, in his address articulated the committee's commitment to achieving a ‘Nasha Mukt Pulwama’ (addiction-free Pulwama). He stressed the need for seamless collaboration among the health, police, and educational departments.

Emphasizing the importance of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities, he urged increased training for workers and heightened awareness campaigns, particularly targeting the student community. The imperative to designate more villages as tobacco-free zones was underscored, aligning with the overarching goal of "Nasha Mukt Pulwama.”

Furthermore, he insisted on a zero-tolerance policy for smoking in public spaces, urging the District Enforcement Squad to rigorously enforce these measures.

The meeting witnessed the participation of officers from the Health Department, Police Department, and Education Department along with various District and Sectoral officers. The collaborative effort showcased a united front in the shared mission to combat the menace of tobacco use and achieve a healthier Pulwama.