PASIGHAT, Aug 21: Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Tatdo Borang called for implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Act (COTPA) in letter and spirit in East Siang district.
Borang, who held a coordination meeting with the officers, civil society and other stakeholders under the National Tobacco Control Programme, here on Wednesday in the district, stressed on early formation of enforcement squads (sub-committee) at block level to make the programme a success.
Explaining the importance of will power to quit tobacco consumption and other bad habits, he appealed to all the participants to be role models in their family and society by adopting good behaviour and habits so that they could keep young ones away from tobacco abuse and other vices.
The ADC also emphasized on creating awareness through various mediums among the public about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption on the user’s body, particularly in schools and colleges.
Borang urged the participants to carry out holistic and comprehensive set of activities as provided under the Act to curb the menace across the district. He sought the cooperation of NGOs, like ABK (WW) and WASE for frequent and effective action against violators of COTPA.
District Programme Officer Dr Tarik Talom gave overview of the objective of the DLCC meeting through power point presentation, besides informing the roles and responsibilities of designated committee members on tobacco control.
The meeting also presented the plans and future actions needed to be done by the police, health department and others for moving one more step towards tobacco free district.
DMO Dr Kaling Dai explained the ill-effects of tobacco use on the user’s health and its overall impact on the society. He urged the members to comply with the prohibitory order issued by the district magistrate.
Medical Superintendent (BPGH) Dr YR Darang urged all present in the meeting to spread the outcome of meeting widely amongst colleagues and friends to sensitize the common masses on the issue.
DDSE J Yirang suggested forming block level committee for better monitoring, while DSP T Tatak briefed the role of police and sought cooperation from the society.
Mebo ADC In-charge K Apum opined that guidelines be issued to avoid future complication, while IGJ HSS Principal T Taloh sought regular evening police patrolling in around the school premise.
ABK East Siang unit women wing president Oti Sitang Eko assured support to the administration in making East Siang a drug and alcohol-free district.
DTCC Consultant Nani Sunia also spoke on the occasion. (DIPRO)
