"Addiction is a disease, not a habit"
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 01 2026:
Addiction is a disease that cannot be stopped in a single day but must be reduced gradually, said Dr N Hemantakumar, Director of Health Services, Manipur, on Monday.
He was speaking at the World No Tobacco Day 2026 observance held at the IMA Hall, Lamphelpat.
The programme was jointly organised by the Directorate of Health Services, State Health Mission, NHM Manipur, and the Indian Medical Association, Manipur State Branch, under the theme "Unmasking the Appeal-Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction".
Dr Hemantakumar said Manipur has a high rate of substance addiction.
While women's groups have actively campaigned against intoxicants, tobacco use remains widespread and deeply concerning.
He noted that even women are increasingly using tobacco, leading to tragic situations where drug-using children and alcohol-consuming fathers exist in the same household.
"Most major diseases are linked to tobacco.
We must all work together to stay away from it", he urged.
Also present were NHM State Mission Director Dr M Dinesh, Family Welfare Services Director Dr N Bino, IMA Manipur President Dr Simpson Sareo, and Secretary Dr AK Ibohal, along with other officials.




