National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) Dimapur launched the “smoke-free district headquarters campaign” on August 9. The campaign was launched by commissioner of police Dimapur, Rothihu Tetseo.
In a press release, psychologist NTCP, Imkumla Aier informed that while speaking at the programme, Rothihu encouraged the team members of the district anti-tobacco squad to work with zeal and dedication and to be role models so that the smoke-free campaign would be successful.
He suggested that they put up necessary signage in their work places so that people may be made aware about Section 4 of Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act 2003 (COTPA) which bans smoking in public places.
District nodal officer, NTCP, Dr. Reyosalu Lase Vizo spoke on the objectives of the campaign and COTPA 2003.
She informed that the smoke free campaign was aimed at spreading awareness on the hazards of smoking and effect of second hand smoke which could cause diseases such as cancer, stroke, TB, pneumonia, infertility, etc.
“The ban on smoking is to protect non-smokers and women and children from second hand smoke”, she further informed.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Imkumla Aier while vote of thanks was delivered by deputy Sp MTO and team leader of district anti-tobacco squad, William Kath.
The programme was attended by officials from health & family welfare department and police officers from various stations at conference hall, commissioner of police office, Dimapur.