National Tobacco Control Programme reviewed in Kathua

Kathua, Aug 5: A review meeting of the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) was held at the DC Office complex, chaired by Additional District Development Commissioner Surinder Mohan Sharma, to assess progress and strengthen anti-tobacco measures.

The meeting was attended by ADC Basholi, ADC Billawar, CMO Kathua, CEO Municipal Council, BDO HQ Kathua, Food Safety Officer, District Programme Manager NHM, and representatives from the CEO’s Office.

All Block Medical Officers joined virtually.

The ADDC underlined the importance of coordination and enforcement to achieve a tobacco-free India. He highlighted the need to protect youth and called for intensified awareness and inter-departmental synergy.

The CMO presented an overview of NTCP implementation and stakeholder responsibilities.

BDO Headquarters, as Nodal Officer, was tasked with declaring at least one tobacco-free village per block, eventually expanding to two.

Signboards and active participation from Village Level Committees were mandated.

The CEO Office, Kathua, was directed to declare all Higher Secondary and High Schools as tobacco-free zones.

Schools must display statutory warnings, designate No Smoking Zones within 100 yards, and conduct pledge-taking assemblies.

The meeting also decided to form multi-departmental teams and roll out weekly outreach programmes in hotspot areas. ADC Basohli and ADC Billawar will identify such areas and ensure regular inspections.

The CEO of the Municipal Council Kathua, was directed to inspect hotels and restaurants for tobacco control compliance and display of IEC material. All departments must nominate Nodal Officers for effective programme implementation.