World no tobacco day observed in Leh

National Health Mission UT Ladakh to launch Tele MANAS soon

Leh, May 31: To raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use, the Health and Family Welfare Department, Leh under National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP) organised an event themed, ‘We need Food not Tobacco’ today at Ladakh Public School Leh. 

As part of the event, a pledge was taken by participants to refrain from tobacco use and to promote healthy eating habits within their communities.

Welcoming the guest, Chief Medical Officer, Dr Nurzin Angmo highlights the WHO’s efforts in combating the use of the product. She added that the main focus of this year’s global anti-tobacco campaign is to raise awareness regarding the opportunities for tobacco farmers to engage in alternative crop production and marketing.

Sharing her experience, chief guest SSP Leh, P D Nitya advised the students to stay away from such ill habits and added that we must have the courage to say no to tobacco and prioritize our health and well-being. Also, urge the elders not to smoke in front of children, especially in families.

Similarly, Psychiatrist, SNM Hospital, Leh, Dr. Padma Angmo shed light on the harmful consequences of tobacco use, and added that through collective efforts we can bring positive change and promote a healthier future for all. Further, she informed that the National Health Mission, UT Ladakh is going to launch (Tele-MANAS, a toll-free no.14416) which facilitates in-person and telephonic counseling. 

Additionally, Nodal Officer, NTCP, Dr. Stanzin Jamyang spoke about various Acts related to Tobacco. He spoke about eliminating exposure to tobacco smoke (SHS), pack warnings and reducing supply by restricting access to minors etc.

Addiction Counsellor from Teen Challenge, Prakash Chandra interacted with participants and highlighted the importance of awareness regarding tobacco’s health hazards. 

The speakers discussed the correlation between tobacco use and food security, underscoring the fact that resources spent on tobacco could be better utilized to address hunger and malnutrition.

Later, Chief Education Officer, Leh, Sonam Dorje distributed prizes among the position-holder schools for painting competition. First position was bagged by Govt. Girls Higher Secondary School Leh, second position was bagged by Govt. High School, Skalzangling and third position was bagged by Islamia Public School, Leh. 

DTO, Dr Diskit Dolma; DIO, Dr Skarma Yontan; Deputy CMO, Dr Dolma Chuskit; Incharge Drug Controller, Nasreen Bano; Teen Challenge, Prakash Chandra; Anti Narcotic Section Ladakh Police, Mohd. Sultan and Director, Ladakh Public School, P. Wangchuk Noney and staff of the Health Department besides students from 10 different schools were present.

District Health Officer, Dr Jameela Parveen presented the vote of thanks.