Kohima: The Department of Youth Ministry, Sumi Baptist Akukuhou Kuqhakalu (SBAK), Nito Mount, kicked off a three-day relay on September 21. The event marks the 75th Jubilee celebration of the ministry. It tackles substance abuse through a rally themed Joyful Harvest. It runs through September 23.
Sumi Kukami Hoho President Hetoho S Zhimomi flagged off the event at the SBAK Nito Mount Mission Centre. Zhimomi urged the community to revive traditional values. "Let us respect one another and love one another," he said. The initiative involves the Social Welfare Department, the Angu Riders Zunheboto, and the PHED Zunheboto project Swachhata Hi Seva.
Suhuto N Chishi, Youth Secretary of the Nagaland Baptist Church Council, flagged the illicit sale of tobacco and alcohol near Zunheboto schools. He demanded better monitoring. The relay route includes stops at Saptiqa Town, Kilomi Old Baptist Church, Satakha Town, and Satoi. It ends at Lumami, Nagaland University.
Dr Villo Naleo, Secretary for Social Concerns at the NBCC, backed the push for wellness. Hokito Jakhalu, a 63-year-old retired BDO and SBAK member, rode his Royal Enfield to show support. Dr I Simon Sumi, state nodal officer for the National Tobacco Control Programme, shared grim data. He noted 43.3 percent of Nagaland adults use tobacco, well above the 28.6 percent national average. Additionally, 43 percent of school children aged 13 to 15 use tobacco.
Tobacco use triggers heart attacks, strokes, oral cancer, and lung disease. Dr Sumi directed those needing help to Tobacco Cessation Centres at district hospitals or the National Tobacco Quitline at 1800-11-2356.
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