Rajouri: To fortify the ongoing efforts towards tobacco control, a pivotal meeting of the District Level Coordination Committee (DLCC) was convened on Tuesday here under the Chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Vikas Kundal.
The focus of the meeting was to enhance the capacity of stakeholders and foster a comprehensive understanding of the enforcement provisions outlined in The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003, commonly known as COTPA, 2003. The meeting provided a detailed overview of the agenda, elucidating the roles and responsibilities of DLCC members in the context of NTCP.
Addressing the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner fervently urged all stakeholders present to actively participate in the stringent enforcement of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003, commonly known as COTPA-2003.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, he emphasized the pivotal role each stakeholder plays in generating public awareness, particularly among the youth. The DC underscored the hazardous effects of tobacco use, emphasizing that it is not merely an individual concern but a shared responsibility in safeguarding public health.
In alignment with this imperative, the DC directed the Chief Education Officer to take a proactive role, and directions were passed to create awareness among students about the perils of tobacco consumption.
The meeting served as a collaborative platform, fostering dialogue and coordination among diverse stakeholders. The Participants representing different sectors contributed insights and expertise to strengthen the local implementation of anti-tobacco measures.
The DLCC affirmed its commitment to the cause of tobacco control, acknowledging the significance of a united front in mitigating the detrimental impact of tobacco on community health. As the DLCC takes decisive steps, it reaffirms its dedication to building a healthier and tobacco-free future for the district.
The meeting was attended by the CPO, Mohammad Khurshid; ASP, Vivek Shekhar; Tehsildar Rajouri, Varinder Sharma; CMO, Dr Rajinder Sharma; Dy CMO, CEO Education, SultanaKouser; CAO, Sohan Singh; ARTO, Pawan Kumar; DTO, Dr Khalid Hussain and other concerned officers.
