Kohima: The District Level Coordination Committee (DLCC) of the District Tobacco Control Cell in Kohima held its quarterly meeting this week to evaluate local tobacco control efforts. Chaired by Deputy Commissioner B. Henok Buchem, the committee focused on improving inter-departmental coordination and tightening enforcement protocols within the district.
During the session, officials identified the current fine of Rs 200 for tobacco-related violations as insufficient to deter repeat offenders. The committee resolved to petition the state government to increase penalty amounts and consider the cancellation of trade licenses for habitual violators. The Deputy Commissioner also requested official clarification from the state regarding specific vendor licensing regulations and product prohibitions.
Food Safety Officer Samlam clarified the scope of current bans, stating, "The prohibition order applies only to food products containing tobacco or nicotine as ingredients and does not cover cigarettes or other standalone tobacco products." Consequently, items like pan masala remain legal unless they are mixed with nicotine or tobacco additives.
To expand oversight, the committee plans to update the district tobacco control task force to include the Food Safety Officer and will explore the creation of enforcement teams for villages and subdivisions. The District Education Officer, Emilo, announced that schools must now appoint Enforcement Officers and Health and Wellness Ambassadors. These institutions are required to submit regular progress reports to ensure environments around schools remain tobacco-free.
The meeting concluded with a presentation by social worker Achila Walling on recent activities. To promote compliance, the committee awarded tobacco-free certificates to Bethel School in Chiechama and Government Middle School in Chiecha Centre.
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