DIMAPUR: District Level Coordination Committee (DLCC) of the District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC), Kohima held its quarterly meeting on June 10 at the DC Office Chamber, Kohima, under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner B. Henok Buchem.
According to a DIPR report, the meeting deliberated on issues relating to tobacco control, licensing, enforcement and inter departmental coordination. DC Kohima emphasized the need to seek clarification from the Government regarding tobacco vendor licensing and the prohibition of certain tobacco related products.
Members discussed promoting awareness through signages in municipal areas, villages, schools and commercial establishments, stressing that campaigns must be backed by regular enforcement.
The committee resolved to update the district tobacco control task force by including the Food Safety Officer and to explore forming similar enforcement teams in subdivisions and villages.
Expressing concern that the current penalty of Rs. 200 for violations was insufficient, members agreed to flag the issue to the State Government for consideration of enhanced penalties and stricter action against repeat offenders. Cancelling trade licences of habitual violators was also discussed as a deterrent measure.
Food Safety Officer, Samlam clarified that the prohibition order applies only to food products containing tobacco or nicotine as ingredients, and does not cover cigarettes or other standalone tobacco products. She explained that pan masala is not banned unless mixed with tobacco or nicotine.
District Education Officer, Emilo informed that schools are being directed to appoint Enforcement Officers and Health & Wellness Ambassadors to strengthen tobacco control measures. Schools will be required to submit monthly reports on actions taken, which will be reviewed in future DLCC meetings.
A presentation of DTCC Kohima’s activity report was given by Social Worker Achila Walling, while tobacco free certificates were awarded to Bethel School, Chiechama, and Government Middle School, Chiecha Centre, Kohima.
