Early Times Report
Jammu, Feb 9: A pivotal Divisional Level Sensitization Workshop on Tobacco Control, orchestrated by the State Tobacco Control Cell, Directorate of Health Services, Jammu, was successfully held on February 9th, 2024, at Government Hospital Gandhinagar. Spearheaded by Dr. Rakesh Mangotra, the esteemed Director Health Services Jammu, the event, conducted under the umbrella of the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP), received technical backing from Vital Strategies India, New Delhi. Diverse Participation: Notable stakeholders from various departments, including School Education, Police, Higher Education, Food and Drug Administration, Drug Controller, and Health, congregated to partake in the workshop. Educational Sessions: Participants were enlightened on the epidemiology of tobacco use, the NTCP’s overview, implementation of Tobacco Free Educational Institutions Guidelines, and the nuances of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act 2003 (COTPA-2003) and the Prohibition of E-Cigarettes Act (PECA2019). Warm Welcome: Dr. Sanjay Sharma, Deputy Director Dentistry, extended a gracious welcome, urging attendees to leverage the workshop to familiarize themselves with their pivotal roles in tobacco control. Programme Progress: The Nodal Officer from the Directorate of Health Services provided insights into the progress of the NTCP in Jammu Division, emphasizing the establishment of Tobacco Cessation Centres across all district hospitals. Awareness Campaigns: The department outlined its multifaceted approach, including sensitization programs in educational institutions, quarterly meetings, law enforcement training, and media-driven awareness campaigns. Interactive Session: The workshop culminated in an engaging session, addressing queries and deliberating on future strategies. The Divisional Coordinator NTCP Jammu extended gratitude to all participants, marking the end of the event. |