One-day Training-cum-Workshop on the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) was held today at the Conference Hall of DC Office Kathua. At the outset, the Chief Medical Officer Dr Vijay Raina highlighted the objectives of the workshop, emphasizing the importance of inter-departmental coordination for effective implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003.
During the technical session, Divisional Coordinator NTCP Shveta Raina delivered a detailed presentation covering key components of the programme, including enforcement of COTPA provisions, role and responsibilities of stakeholders, awareness generation strategies, tobacco cessation services and monitoring mechanisms, thereby enhancing the capacity of participants on tobacco control measures.
Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma, in his address, stressed strict enforcement of tobacco control laws and called for robust coordination among departments. He emphasized regular inspections, intensified awareness campaigns and active community participation to curb tobacco use, besides directing officers to ensure tobacco-free public places and institutions.
To promote tobacco-free environments at the grassroots level, Tobacco-Free Village signboards were handed over by DC to the Block Development Officer (HQ) for installation in identified villages. The meeting was attended by ADC Vishavjeet Singh; ASP Rahul Charak; RTO Surinder Sharma, officers from various departments, members of DLCC and other stakeholders.