A 5 km marathon was organised by the office of the South West Khasi Hills District Legal Services Authority in Mawkyrwat today to observe World No Tobacco Day.
Students from various schools and colleges participated in age wise categories set for the event.
The marathon which started from the premises of District and Session Court, Mawkyrwat was flagged off by District and Sessions Judge and Chairperson of DLSA C. Dkhar.
Following the marathon, an awareness program was held on the theme “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference”.
Block Development Officer, I. Lawriniang said that tobacco consumption provides no benefits to a person; instead, it solely profits the tobacco companies. He informed that stringent laws and measures are being enforced to combat tobacco use, including the prohibition of advertising tobacco products, selling and distributing tobacco products to individuals below the age of 18, and the ban on smoking in public places among others.
He encouraged students to have the willpower to say no to tobacco and not to fall under pressure from peers and advised parents against setting a bad example by smoking in front of their children and refraining from asking their children to purchase cigarettes or tobacco products, as it may lead them to consider experimenting with it.
Lawriniang said games, sports and physical activities help individuals avoid tobacco use.
Dkhar spoke about the significance of World No Tobacco Day and expressed concern over the rising number of tobacco users in the state, which has resulted in many individuals suffering from tobacco-related diseases and illnesses such as ulcer and cancer, ultimately reducing their life expectancy. While stating that tobacco use can result in several lifelong health conditions, she urged the students to refrain from smoking or consuming tobacco products, and to prioritize their health by leading a healthy lifestyle.
Medical and Health Officer of Ranikor CHC, Dr. F. Lyngdoh highlighted the impact of tobacco consumption and the diseases and illness associated with tobacco use, the preventive measures and treatments.
Advocate. I. S. Lyngdoh Mawphlang, Public Prosecutor, enlightened the students on the topic “Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003” and highlighted the legal measures to combat tobacco use.”
Ehbok Syiemlieh, PTE, District Sports Office spoke on the importance of sports for health and said no to tobacco. Others who also spoke were D. Sohtun, MJS, Secretary, DLSA, Mawkyrwat and Dr. P. Phyllei, District Nodal Officer, National Tobacco Control Programme, Mawkyrwat.
During the programme, mementos and certificates were presented to the winners of the marathon in the three categories (Under 14, 18, and above 18 years). Furthermore, certificates of participation were distributed to all individuals who took part in the marathon, acknowledging their participation in the event.
