COTPA enforcement drive conducted in Zunheboto town

A mass checking drive was conducted across Zunheboto town on June 16, 2025, under the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003.
According to a DIPR report, the enforcement drive was jointly carried out by the District Administration in collaboration with the Drugs Control Administration, the District No Tobacco Club, and police personnel under the supervision of the Superintendent of Police, Zunheboto, Debashis.
The surprise inspection primarily targeted areas within a 100-yard radius of educational institutions, in accordance with COTPA guidelines that strictly prohibit the sale of tobacco products near school premises. Several retail shops and vendors were inspected for illegal possession and sale of tobacco items.
During the inspection, a significant quantity of tobacco-related products was seized. The confiscated items were subsequently disposed of at a designated dumping zone and incinerated.
Officials supervising the operation informed that the primary objective of the drive was to promote a tobacco-free environment around educational institutions and to raise awareness about the health hazards associated with tobacco use. They further warned that similar enforcement actions would be conducted in the future to ensure continued compliance with tobacco control laws.