The Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Regional Office Imphal, under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, organized a Special Outreach Programme (SOP) on World No-Tobacco Day at Gem Public School, Pourabi, Imphal East. The event was held under the theme, “Unmasking the appeal— countering nicotine and tobacco addiction.”

Field Publicity Officer, Dr N Reena gave an overview of the roles played by Central Bureau of Communication in disseminating information about the scheme of the Government of India. She led the participating students, teachers of the school and locals in taking a pledge to abstain from using tobacco and other harmful tobacco products.

Resource person Dr Haobijam Angomcha Singh, Sr Psychiatrist (retd.) Directorate of Health Services gave a detailed presentation on the harmful impacts of tobacco use. He spoke on the psychology of teenagers being dragged into use of tobacco and other harmful substances due to peer pressure and various other factors. He urged the young students to refrain from using tobacco products and other harmful substances.

In the context of Manipur there is a changing trend where society has become increasingly tolerant to young people who have started using tobacco products and other harmful substances, which is very alarming, he added. It is unfortunate that the State is ranked 2nd among the highest tobacco consuming states in the country. He further said that despite having various acts and rules against use and sales of tobacco and tobacco products, the country still lacks sufficient action plan to spread the knowledge of the harm of tobacco products. So, let us take this opportunity to refrain from using tobacco and tobacco  products, and spread the message to our friends and family, he said.

W Jaminjoy Meitei, Principal of Gem Public School in his speech appreciated CBC, RO Imphal for organising such event in the school. He said that organising such event at grassroots level is worth appreciating adding that in the future such events should be organised in different areas.

The outreach event also featured a live spot-quiz contest, with prizes and certificates distributed to the winners. Private Registered Troupe (PRTs) also presented a skit and drama depicting the harm of tobacco use.

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                            MRS

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