Photo Courtesy: nenews
Shillong: Health officials in South West Garo Hills recently gathered at the Bidamong Educational Foundation School in Dengasi to address the rising threat of tobacco and nicotine addiction among local youth. During an event marking World No Tobacco Day 2026, Dr. Cornelius R. Marak, the District Nodal Officer, warned that tobacco companies frequently use appealing flavors and clever marketing to target children. He urged parents, teachers, and community members to unite in fostering a tobacco-free environment for students.
The event featured presentations from various experts, including Dr. Challang R. Sangma of Ampati Civil Hospital and Dr. Ladya M. Marak, who emphasized the importance of personal hygiene and healthy lifestyle choices. Sengatchi Marak, a legal expert, explained the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act and called for stricter enforcement of tobacco control policies. Educators and community leaders also spoke, encouraging students to prioritize their education and future career goals over substance use.
Students contributed to the awareness campaign through a skit on the dangers of substance abuse and a traditional Wangala dance performance. Beyond the discussions, the program included health screenings for dental issues, tuberculosis, and non-communicable diseases. The day concluded with the distribution of prizes for a quiz competition focused on educating participants about the specific health hazards associated with tobacco use.
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