DIMAPUR: Joining the global observance of World No Tobacco Day under the theme “Unmasking the appeal – Countering nicotine and tobacco addiction”, the Kohima District Legal Services Authority (KDLSA) conducted an extended outreach programme on May 31, reaching out to children across seven institutions in Kohima.
Under the banner “Choose life and health”, KDLSA engaged with Sunday Catechism classes, Sunday Schools and Bright Morning Star Children’s Home, covering institutions such as Christ the King Church, Chakhessang Baptist Church, Sumi Aphuyemi Baptist Church, Peniel Christian Revival Church, Union Christian Revival Church, Rengma Baptist Church and Bright Morning Star Children’s Home.
The outreach team, comprising 10 panel lawyers and three para legal volunteers, reached out to 702 children.
Sessions highlighted restrictions on tobacco advertisement, prohibition of sale to minors, ban on shops near educational institutions, harmful effects of tobacco consumption, emerging nicotine products targeting youth, and punishments under relevant laws. Children were also encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyles and took pledges to lead disciplined, tobacco free lives.
At Christ the King Church, panel lawyer Kekhriengunuo Catherine spoke on legal restrictions, while at Chakhessang Baptist Church, Kusalu Lohe highlighted harmful effects and emerging trends.
At Sumi Aphuyemi Baptist Church, Berta Tep emphasized punishments for offenders and encouraged skill development. At Peniel Christian Revival Church, Nagali Shohe and Marylena Nsu spoke on health risks linked to tobacco. At Union Christian Revival Church, panel lawyers Viliezonuo Rhetso and Wonchano Humtsoe stressed protecting children from addiction, while at Rengma Baptist Church, resource persons highlighted laws including the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019. At Bright Morning Star Children’s Home, Asenla Walling educated children on the COTPA Act, 2003, urging them to resist peer pressure and become role models for a tobacco free world.
Meanwhile, the District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC), Mokokchung also observed World No Tobacco Day at Impur Baptist Church Youth Ministry. Theme speaker Dr. K. Tiasenla, DNO NTCP, spoke on harmful effects and health risks of tobacco consumption, while consultant Nukshiwati emphasized awareness and hygiene concerns. Participants took pledges and IEC materials were distributed. More than 250 students from Impur Bible Seminary and Impur School of Nursing attended the programme.