World No Tobacco Day was observed in Kohima, Dimapur, and Mokokchung with educational seminars and outreach programmes.
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DIMAPUR/KOHIMA — World No Tobacco Day was observed in Dimapur, Kohima, and Mokokchung on May 31 and June 1, featuring seminars, extended outreach programmes, and awareness rallies to counter nicotine and tobacco addiction among the youth.
Dimapur: The National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP), Dimapur, observed World No Tobacco Day at St. John Higher Secondary Residential School on May 31.
Speaking at the programme as the special guest, DEO Dimapur, Y Mughaho Zhimo, encouraged students to live a tobacco-free life. He stated that there is nothing smart, modern, or admirable about addiction and that true strength lies in saying no when the world pressurises one to say yes.
The theme speaker, Dr. Sentirenla Jamir, in her visual presentation, mentioned the various marketing strategies that lure young people to consume tobacco. She highlighted the implications of tobacco on human health and led the gathering to an anti-tobacco pledge.
District Nodal Officer of NTCP Dr. Jeshua Nchang, in his address, highlighted the addictive properties of nicotine. He stated that nicotine is a highly addictive chemical that alters brain chemistry, making it difficult for users to quit, and called for a collective effort in tackling the tobacco epidemic.
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During the programme, winners of the poster-making, essay-writing, and painting competitions were announced and awarded.
Kohima: In Kohima, a seminar on the theme "Education beyond degrees" was held on Monday at the Directorate of School Education in Kohima.
The programme was organised by the Rajyoga Education and Research Foundation (medical wing and youth wing), Brahma Kumaris, Kohima, with the objective of promoting youth wellness and awareness on the campaign theme "Unmasking the appeal: Countering nicotine and tobacco addiction".
Speaking during the seminar, neurologist and narcotics awareness expert Dr. Swapan Gupta interacted with the staff of the School Education department about how outside appearance does not make a good human being, but their qualities decide whether they are a good or bad person.
He shared that technical knowledge alone is not sufficient, highlighting that soft skills are essential for smooth functioning and workflow. He pointed out that office workflow becomes difficult because of ego.
He opined that office workers are stressed because of a lack of cooperation and ego and advised that everyone must know certain self-traits such as peace, love, and happiness for a beautiful journey.
The seminar was also attended by Principal Director of School Education Shashank Pratap Singh and other officials of the department. Earlier, a mass awareness rally was flagged off by Inspector General of Assam Rifles (North) Harinder Singh Mavi on the theme "Education beyond degrees".
In a separate event, the Kohima District Legal Services Authority (KDLSA) observed World No Tobacco Day on May 31.
With a vision to reach the maximum populace, the KDLSA, under the banner "Choose life and health", conducted an extended outreach programme with children of seven institutions comprising Sunday Catechism classes, Sunday schools, and the Bright Morning Star Children’s Home, according to an update.
The institutions included Christ The King Church, Kohima Village (Sunday Catechism Class); Children's Ministry at Chakhesang Baptist Church, Kitsubozou; Sumi Aphuyemi Baptist Church Sunday School; Children’s Ministry of Peniel Christian Revival Church, Kohima; Children’s Ministry of Union Christian Revival Church, New Market; Rengma Baptist Church Sunday School, Kohima; and Bright Morning Star Children’s Home, Kohima.
Through this outreach programme, the KDLSA team, comprising 10 panel lawyers and three paralegal volunteers, reached out to 702 children.
Mokokchung: The District Tobacco Control Cell, Mokokchung, observed World No Tobacco Day on May 31 at the premises of the Impur Baptist Church Youth Ministry.
The theme address was delivered by Dr. K Tiasenla, District Nodal Officer of NTCP, who spoke on the harmful effects and health risks of consuming tobacco.
Consultant of NTCP Nukshiwati spoke on the harmful effects of tobacco use and its awareness. He stated that tobacco is not only injurious to health but is also an unhygienic practice.
During the programme, a pledge was taken by all the participants, and IEC materials were distributed. More than 250 students from the Impur Bible Seminary and Impur School of Nursing participated in the programme.