Shillong: South West Garo Hills officials observed World No Tobacco Day at the Bidamong Educational Foundation School in Dengasi on Monday. Organized by the District Tobacco Control Programme and the National Oral Health Programme, the event focused on shielding young people from the dangers of nicotine addiction.
District Nodal Officer Dr. Cornelius R. Marak warned that the tobacco industry actively targets children through flavored products and aggressive marketing. He called on educators and parents to foster tobacco-free environments for students. Chief guest and SDSEO Emphul Ch. Marak encouraged the youth to prioritize their studies over harmful substances, while Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel Sengatchi Marak detailed legal protections provided by the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act.
The event featured educational activities including a skit on drug abuse and a traditional Wangala dance. Students also participated in a health quiz with prizes awarded to the winners. Medical professionals expanded the scope of the program by offering dental screenings, general check-ups, and testing for tuberculosis, HIV, and non-communicable diseases. The session concluded with mental health counseling and the distribution of dental kits to the students.
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