DC Rajouri reviews enforcement of tobacco control measures

RAJOURI, AUGUST 03: To increase the ongoing efforts towards tobacco control, a meeting of the District Level Coordination Committee was today held by Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Om Prakash Bhagat.

The focus of the meeting was to give in-depth understanding of the enforcement provisions outlined in Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement, Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003, commonly known as COTPA, 2003.

The Deputy Commissioner directed all concerned departments to actively participate in the stringent enforcement of all provisions of COTPA-2003. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, he asked all stakeholders to play a significant role in public awareness, particularly among the youth. He underscored the hazardous effects of tobacco use, emphasizing that it is not merely an individual concern but a shared responsibility in safeguarding public health and directed the Chief Education Officer to take a proactive role to create awareness among students about the perils of tobacco consumption.

The Participants representing different sectors contributed insights to strengthen the implementation of anti-tobacco measures. The DLCC affirmed its commitment to the cause of tobacco control, acknowledging the significance of a coordinated efforts in mitigating the detrimental impact of tobacco on community health.

The meeting was attended by the CMO, Dr Manohar Rana; CEO Education, Bishamber Dass; DIO, Mohammad Nawaz Choudhary; DPM, Asief Mir; Block Medical Officers and other concerned officers.