The danger of Tobacco products and provisions of Tobacco control law

Tobacco epidemic has been taking a heavy toll on society as indicated by the rising trend of the incidence of diseases and economic burden related to tobacco use. The National tobacco control program has been carrying out various activities to create awareness about the danger of tobacco products through awareness programs in educational institutions, churches, and communities. Apart from that District Tobacco Control Cells in all the districts are carrying out enforcement activities to enforce the provisions of COTPA 2003 on a regular basis.
Some important sections of COTPA 2003 which the department is prioritising are Section-4 Which prohibits smoking in public places to protect non-smokers from the effect of second-hand smoke in public places, offices and workplaces. Section 6 (a) Ban on sale of Tobacco products to anybody below 18 years of age and Section 6 (b) Ban on sale of tobacco products within 100 metres of any educational institutions. The department is also trying to invoke the provision of section 77 of Juvenile justice (Care and protection of children Act 2015). In this if any person gives or cause to give to any child, any intoxicating liquor, narcotic drugs or tobacco products or psychotropic substance to except on the order of a duly qualified medical practitioner such person shall be punishable with rigorous imprisonment for a term which may extend up to 7 years imprisonment or a fine which may extend up to Rupees One lac. Officer from the rank of sub inspector of police or equivalent rank in other departments are authorised to act on this.
The State Nodal Officer of National Tobacco Control Program(NTCP) Nagaland stated that our society should fight the tobacco menace before it is too late. And also stated that as Tobacco is a serious threat to the wellbeing of the younger generation.
The Department has been actively following the protocol laid down by the government of India under COTPA 2003 for tobacco control in the state.
Dr. Arenla Walling,
State Nodal Officer, National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP), Department of Health and Family Welfare, Nagaland