The quarterly meeting of the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) and District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC) for the months of April, May and June 2026 was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Chamber, Zunheboto, on June 19.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner Zunheboto, Dharam Raj, IAS, stressed the importance of education and awareness in building a healthier society. He appreciated the efforts of the NTCP and stakeholders in promoting tobacco-free educational institutions and encouraged continued community participation in tobacco control initiatives.

During the meeting, District Nodal Officer (DNO), NTCP Zunheboto, Dr KR Yhome, highlighted the various activities undertaken by the district under the National Tobacco Control Programme. He informed that NTCP has been focusing on sensitisation and awareness campaigns to educate the public on the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003.

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Dr Yhome stated that the programme primarily focuses on creating awareness and ensuring compliance with COTPA provisions, particularly those relating to the prohibition of tobacco sales to minors and restrictions on the sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions.

A major highlight of the programme was the declaration of Government Primary School (GPS) Yezami and GPS Baimho as Tobacco-Free School. The two schools were awarded certificates in recognition of their efforts towards maintaining a tobacco-free environment within their campuses.

The meeting was attended by members of the District Level Coordination Committee (DLCC), representatives from various departments, civil society organisations, and stakeholders associated with tobacco control activities in the district.