Dr Mezhunuo Angami, Senior Specialist at Hezukhu Memorial District Hospital, Zunheboto along with others at the programme on May 31. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | May 31
World No Tobacco Day was observed at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Zunheboto, under the theme “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products” on May 31. The programme was organized by the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) in collaboration with the District National Tobacco Control Cell Zunheboto (DNTCZ).
Dr Mezhunuo Angami, Senior Specialist at Hezukhu Memorial District Hospital, Zunheboto, was the guest speaker. She highlighted that 43% of school-going students aged 13–15 years consume tobacco products in Nagaland in the global Context, often influenced by the appealing marketing tactics of the tobacco industry.
She noted that the sweet flavors, odors, and colorful packaging of tobacco products attract young people. She added that Nagaland is highly exposed to tobacco products and that India is home to over 16,000 tobacco and nicotine industries.
Dr Angami emphasized the health hazards of tobacco use, which include damage to the lungs, kidneys, bladder, oral cavity, throat, and stomach, along with increased risk of various forms of cancer. She stated that tobacco is now the leading cause of preventable deaths globally.
She further explained that smoking products contain over 7,000 harmful chemicals, including 3,095 toxic substances. Dr Angami warned that the tobacco industry is targeting youth and called for greater awareness.
She also reiterated the key provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) 2003, including the prohibition of smoking in public places, the ban on the sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions, and restrictions on tobacco advertising.
Dr. Angami concluded her address by urging everyone to "Say no to tobacco and nicotine."
Earlier in the programme, Kheboli Chophy, teacher at GHSS, chaired the event. Assutoli Aye from Zunheboto Government College offered the invocation. A short speech was delivered by Ayeto Aye, representative District No Tobacco Club. A special number was presented by Mughato Achumi, followed by a performance by students of GHSS. The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. K. Rosy Yhome, District Nodal Officer, NTCP. The programme concluded with a students’ taking No Tobacco Pledge.
