SHOPIAN, APRIL 25: A district level training programme for Panchayat Secretaries under the Tobacco Free Village Initiative was conducted today at the Meeting Hall, Mini Secretariat Shopian.
The programme was organized by the District Health Society Shopian in collaboration with the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir.
During the session, detailed deliberations were held on rules, regulations, roles, and responsibilities related to tobacco control.
Emphasis was laid on practical steps for implementing smoke free norms at the grassroots level, ensuring compliance with the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, and enforcing the prohibition on the sale of tobacco products across Public places, work places, government offices, educational institutions etc.
District Health Officer Shopian, Dr. Shafqat Khan, delivered a comprehensive presentation on legal provisions, penalties, and enforcement mechanisms under the Tobacco Control Act.
He stressed the importance of strict implementation and inter departmental coordination to effectively curb tobacco use.
The training also highlighted the role of various departments including Police, Education, Municipal Council, Sales Tax, Information Department, colleges, and civil society organizations in combating tobacco consumption and promoting a healthier society.
Chief Medical Officer Shopian, Dr. Arsheed Hussain Tak while speaking underscored the harmful effects of tobacco and outlined the ongoing efforts of the district administration in tackling substance abuse under the broader Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyaan.
He called for collective responsibility and proactive engagement at all levels to achieve the goal of tobacco free villages.
The training was attended by officials from the District Health Services Kashmir (DHSK), Srinagar, who provided valuable insights and guidance on strengthening NTCP activities for effective tobacco control across the district, along with BMO Shopian, Dr. Mohd Yousuf, officials from the Health Department, Panchayat Secretaries, and employees from various departments of the Mini Secretariat, Shopian.
