46.1 pc women, 63.7 pc men in Senapati use tobacco
Source: Chronicle News Service

Senapati, March 12 2025: District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC), under National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) of District Health Society, Senapati, observed the National No Smoking Day on Wednesday at Senapati town, during which speakers highlighted that 46.1 per cent of women and 63.7 per cent of men in the district use tobacco items.

In light of these concerning statistics, the speakers advocated for stricter enforcement of tobacco control laws to curb usage rates effectively.

Koshia Mao, public prosecutor and government advocate, provided insights into the legal framework surrounding tobacco consumption.

46.1 pc women, 63.7 pc men in Senapati use tobacco

She highlighted that smoking in public spaces - such as restaurants, hospitals, public transport, and airports - is a punishable offence under existing regulations, with offenders liable to face fine of Rs 200 .

However, Koshia argued that the current penalty is insufficient and called for heavier penalty amount to serve as a stronger deterrent.

She further elaborated that cases involving public smoking are classified as summary trials, requiring resolution within a year of registration of the FIR .

In case of non-payment, a challan is issued, mandating the offender's court appearance.

Additionally, she emphasised that law enforcement officers at the rank of sub-inspector and above are authorised to enforce these regulations.

Drawing from personal experiences, Koshia Mao reflected on adverse effect of tobacco use, not only on individual health and financial well-being but also on the overall welfare of families.

Speaking at the event, Dr Sumpi Percy urged the attendees to adopt healthier lifestyles and abstain from smoking, cautioning that smoking significantly reduces life expectancy and poses serious health risks to family members through passive exposure.

Dr Percy also reminded that quitting smoking is achievable through counselling, medication, and strong personal commitment.

NTCP Senapati district nodal officer, Dr Agui, delivered an in-depth presentation on tobacco control laws and the district's tobacco consumption trends.

She outlined key provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) 2003, including Section 4: Prohibition of smoking in public places, Section 5: Ban on the advertisement of tobacco products, and Section 6(a): Prohibition of tobacco sales to and by minors.

Additionally, Dr Agui discussed the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act (PECA) 2019, which bans the production, sale, and use of e-cigarettes under Sections 4 and 5 .

Meanwhile, Dr BK Gracy, medical officer Tobacco Cessation Centre (TCC) at District Hospital Senapati, elaborated on the health risks associated with tobacco use and strategies for prevention and cessation.

Citing statistics from NFHS-5 (2019-2020), she reiterated that 46.1 per cent of women and 63.7 per cent men in Senapati consume tobacco, while data from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (2016-17) indicates that 55.1 per cent of adults in Manipur use tobacco.

Dr Gracy called for creating public awareness on mission mode and stricter enforcement of tobacco control laws.

She also highlighted the importance of community participation in tobacco cessation efforts, stressing the influential role of family and peers in combating tobacco use.

To encourage healthier lifestyles, she advised individuals to engage in regular physical activity and maintain a balanced diet.

For those seeking to quit tobacco use, she outlined available treatment options, including behavioural therapy, counselling, and nicotine replacement therapy.

Dr Gracy further informed the attendees that counselling and nicotine therapy services are accessible at the District Hospital every Thursday and Friday.

The event was moderated by RK Elizabeth, district programme manager National Health Mission (NHM) Senapati, who reiterated the profound impact of tobacco use on family health and longevity.

The programme witnessed active participation from police personnel, government officials, students, NGOs, civil society organisations, village chairpersons, and secretaries.