Shillong, May 19: As tobacco-linked deaths surpass 10 million globally, a legal awareness was conducted at Rymbai village by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), East Jaintia Hills District
The programme focussed on the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003 and the DAWN (Drug Awareness and Wellness Navigation – For a Drug Free India) Scheme, 2025.
Dental Surgeon cum District Nodal Officer for NTCP/NOHP Dr. N. R Dhar flagged the “alarming health risks associated with tobacco consumption” and stressed the need for prevention, protection, and cessation strategies.
The session detailed COTPA provisions that ban smoking in public places, prohibit tobacco sales to minors and near schools, and restrict advertising. The DAWN Scheme, 2025, was also introduced as part of the push for a drug-free India.
Panel Lawyers of DLSA, P. Rymbai and PN Swer highlighted legal aspects and enforcement.
The DLSA said similar legal awareness drives on COTPA and DAWN will continue across the district to curb tobacco use and substance abuse among youth.
