Shillong: World No Tobacco Day was observed by the Department of Oncology and Community Medicine, NEIGRIHMS on Thursday.
The campaign was an effort to sensitise students, police and government officials and the hospital staff about the harmful effects of tobacco and the steps to curb the menace.
The program was inaugurated by signing of a pledge against tobacco by the dignitaries.
East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner P.S Dkhar highlighted the role of the government in controlling the tobacco menace in the state and not only extended his support for such awareness programmes in future but also promised to take action in his administrative capacity.
During the programme, a panel discussion was organised with experts from different walks of life sharing insights on various aspects of tobacco control.
Editor of The Shillong Times Patricia Mukhim stressed the role of visual media to tackle the menace of tobacco and its effects.
Students from Seng Khasi College and NEHU enthusiastically participated in the discussion and raised pertinent questions.
Police officers from various localities attended the programme.
There was consensus on the need to take this initiative forward to different members of the society so that this is not a once-in-a-year affair.
In North Garo Hills, the occasion was observed at Mendipathar College in Resubelpara.
Deputy Commissioner in-Charge AVD Shira motivated the students to abstain from tobacco and negative influences.
The occasion was also observed at Williamnagar in East Garo Hills where a free medical camp and extempore speech competition for students were organised.
The anti tobacco day was also observed at Tura Super Market Complex in West Garo Hills on Thursday.
The programme was organised by the District Legal Services with an aim to increase awareness on the hazards of tobacco which is the second leading cause of cardiovascular diseases after blood pressure.
