Agartala, 30th May 2026: World No Tobacco Day is being observed across Tripura through a series of awareness and enforcement activities aimed at educating the public about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption. The statewide observance, being conducted from May 25 to June 5, 2026, includes rallies, awareness meetings, pledge-taking ceremonies, poster exhibitions, quiz competitions, and community outreach programmes.
Under the National Tobacco Control Programme, the Department of Health and Family Welfare has intensified efforts to spread awareness about the health risks associated with tobacco use. Special emphasis is being placed on preventing tobacco consumption among youths and adolescents through awareness sessions in schools and colleges.
Health officials highlighted that both smoking and smokeless tobacco products significantly increase the risk of non-communicable diseases such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory ailments. Exposure to second-hand smoke also poses serious health risks, particularly for women and children.
As part of the observance, a special enforcement drive is being conducted across the state to promote and strengthen “Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions.” The initiative is being implemented jointly by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, the Education Department, district administrations, and law enforcement agencies.
Authorities are reviewing compliance with tobacco-free institution guidelines, including the installation of signboards declaring campuses tobacco-free, prohibition of tobacco use within educational premises, and awareness-building measures among students. Inspections are also being carried out to ensure strict enforcement of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, which prohibits the sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions.
Officials said legal action is being initiated wherever violations are detected. They emphasized that sustained enforcement and awareness campaigns are essential to protect young people from the harmful effects of tobacco and to build a healthier, tobacco-free society.
The information was shared through a press release issued by the National Health Mission.
