Training on NTCP, COTPA Act held
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 10 2025: A one-day training and orientation programme on the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) and the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (COTPA) Act, 2003, was held on Monday at Kakching Municipal Council conference hall.

The programme, organised by the District Health Society (DHS) under the supervision of Kakching district administration was attended by District Health Society, Kakching NTCP nodal officer Dr Takhellambam Jullon.

He spoke on the role of NTCP in combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and highlighted tobacco use as a major risk factor for cancer, heart disease, chronic respiratory conditions and diabetes.

Sangai Youth Tobacco Free and Educational Organisation co-founder and president Premjit Thokchom, elaborated on harmful effects of tobacco and its products, cautioning that both users and non-users may face serious health, social, and economic consequences.

Food safety officer Sou-gaijam Surendro addressed the COTPA Act, 2003, and explained its significance in regulating tobacco use and protecting public health.

He noted that the Act prohibits tobacco advertising, restricts smoking in public places, and bans the sale of tobacco products to minors and near educational institutions.

A total of 40 officials from the medical, food safety, police, and education departments attended the programme.

Challan books for penalising violators of the COTPA Act, 2003, were also distributed to the participants.

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