Ampati: Highlighting the growing threat of tobacco and nicotine addiction among young people, Dr. Cornelius R. Marak, District Nodal Officer (NTCP & NOHP), South West Garo Hills, on Monday called for collective efforts to protect children and adolescents from tobacco use.
He warned that tobacco companies often target young people through attractive packaging, flavouring and marketing strategies, and urged parents, teachers and community members to work together in promoting a tobacco-free lifestyle.
Marak was delivering the keynote address during the observance of World No Tobacco Day 2026 at Bidamong Educational Foundation School, Dengasi.
The programme was organised by the District Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) and National Oral Health Programme (NOHP), South West Garo Hills, to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco and prevent addiction among children and youth.
The event, held on the school premises, was chaired by Dr. Challang R. Sangma, Dental Surgeon, Ampati Civil Hospital, and attended by health officials, community leaders, teachers, students and members of the public.
The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Timchida A. Marak, Medical Officer In-Charge of Garobadha PHC, followed by a welcome song presented by students of the school.
Students also staged an awareness skit on tobacco and drug abuse, highlighting the importance of prevention, self-discipline and the dangers associated with substance abuse.
The programme was further enriched by a traditional Wangala dance performance showcasing the cultural heritage of the Garo community.
Speaking on the occasion, community representative Hema R. Marak encouraged students to adopt healthy habits and contribute positively to society.
The founder member and principal of the school also urged students to maintain a healthy environment and stay away from tobacco and related products.
Dr. Ladya M. Marak, SDMHO, Ampati, spoke on health issues affecting young people and stressed the importance of personal hygiene and healthy lifestyles.
Sengatchi Marak, Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel, highlighted provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and underscored the need for effective enforcement of tobacco control measures.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Emphul Ch. Marak, SDSEO, Ampati, encouraged students to focus on their education and future careers while avoiding tobacco, drugs and other harmful substances.
C. N. Marak, Junior Rural Development Officer (JRDO), also spoke on the ill effects of tobacco and urged young people to make informed and healthy life choices.
As part of the observance, prizes were distributed to winners of a quiz competition conducted to promote awareness about tobacco-related health hazards.
Alongside the awareness programme, a range of health services were provided, including general health check-ups, oral and dental screening, tuberculosis (TB) screening, non-communicable disease (NCD) screening, mental health awareness and counselling, HIV screening, and free distribution of dental kits to students.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Sonami G. Sangma, Dental Surgeon, Ampati Civil Hospital.
Organisers said the observance successfully sensitised students, teachers and community members about the dangers of tobacco use while reinforcing the importance of healthy living and collective efforts to build a tobacco-free society.