In the run up to observe World No Tobacco Day a series of activities were held across North Garo Hills district to raise awareness on environmental impacts of tobacco and drawn attention of young and old against the harmful effects of tobacco.
Various schools within the district held rallies and signature campaigns organised by the departments of education and health in tandem with Sambandh Health Foundation (SHF), a Gurugram – based NGO to create awareness on how tobacco is damaging the environment.
In line with this year’s theme ” Tobacco: threat to environment”, Deputy Commissioner, RP Marak said “Tobacco is not only harmful to human beings, it is also damaging the environment. The very high usage of tobacco causes death and disease and puts a heavy burden on families. The Tobacco Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI) program works with youth and will change the attitude of population towards tobacco and reduce usage.”
NTCP nodal officer, Dr Lana L Nongbri said it has been a record breaking observation of World No Tobacco Day in the state. Schools from every block in the district are participating and students are sensitising thousands of people in the community.
She said the campaign will make a dent in the alarming level of tobacco use in the state. 47 per cent of adults use tobacco and even among 13-15 years old, it was found that 34 per cent use tobacco by the Global Tobacco Youth Survey (GYTS 2019).
Earlier the health department, in a bid to spread awareness on environmental effects of tobacco shared memes on WhatsApp to principals, teachers of all schools on how a tree is burnt to cure tobacco use for every 300 cigarettes; how cigarette butts create litter, are not biodegradable and spread the harmful chemicals contained in cigarettes and how people chew tobacco and spit in public places.
These messages were further conveyed to the public through the activities of rallies and signature campaign. Schools that conducted both the activities with maximum student participation are eligible for winning awards to be given by National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP), Meghalaya.
