Training / orientation programme on NTCP & COTPA Act held at Kakching
Source: The Sangai Express / DIO-IPR

Kakching, March 10 2025: A one day training cum orientation programme on NTCP (National Tobacco Control Programme) and Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (COTPA) Act, 2003 was held today at the Conference Hall of the Kakching Municipal Council.

The programme was organised by the District Health Society (DHS) under the supervision of District Administration Kakching.

At the event, Dr Takhellambam Julian, District Nodal Officer, NTCP, DHS Kakching, spoke about the role of the NTCP in tackling Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), as use of tobacco is a major risk factor for cancer, heart diseases, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes.

Premjit Thokchom, CoFounder and President Sangai Youth Tobacco Free and Educational Organisation and member SLCC NTCP, explained about the ill effects of tobacco and its products, which has severe health, social and economic con sequences, both for users and non-users.

Sougaijam Surendro, Food Safety Officer, spoke about the COTPA Act, 2003, explaining its importance in regulating tobacco use and protecting public health.

He emphasized that the act prohibits tobacco advertisements, restricts smoking in public places and bans the sale of tobacco products to minors and near educational institutions.

A total of about 40 officials from Medical, Food Safety, Police and Education departments attended the programme.

Also, challan books for booking violators of the COTPA Act, 2003.were distributed to the participants.

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