Ampati, June 1: The District Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) and National Oral Health Programme (NOHP), South West Garo Hills, observed World No Tobacco Day 2026 at Bidamong Educational Foundation School, Dengasi, on Monday with the objective of creating awareness on the harmful effects of tobacco and protecting children and youth from tobacco addiction.
The programme, held at the school premises, was chaired by Dr. Challang R. Sangma, Dental Surgeon, Ampati Civil Hospital, and witnessed the participation of 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, Garobadha PHC, who welcomed the dignitaries and participants. A welcome song performed by the students of Bidamong Educational Foundation School set the tone for the awareness programme.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Cornelius R. Marak, District Nodal Officer (NTCP & NOHP), South West Garo Hills, highlighted the serious health risks associated with tobacco and nicotine addiction, particularly among children and adolescents.
He explained how tobacco industries often target young people through attractive packaging, flavouring, and marketing strategies. Stressing the need for collective action, he urged parents, teachers, and community members to work together in safeguarding children from tobacco use and promoting a healthy, tobacco-free lifestyle.
The programme featured an awareness skit on tobacco and drug abuse presented by students, effectively conveying messages on prevention, self-discipline, and the dangers of substance abuse.
Speaking on the occasion, Mrs. Hema R. Marak, community representative, encouraged students to adopt healthy habits and contribute positively to the welfare and development of the community.
The founder member and principal of the school also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy environment and urging students to stay away from tobacco and related products.
Dr. Ladya M. Marak, SDMHO, Ampati, spoke on various health issues affecting young people and encouraged students to maintain good personal hygiene and healthy lifestyles.
Miss Sengatchi Marak, Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel, highlighted the legal provisions under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and spoke on the importance of enforcing tobacco control measures in the district.
The programme was further enriched by a traditional Wangala dance performance presented by students, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Garo community.
Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, Shri Emphul Ch. Marak, SDSEO, Ampati, encouraged students to remain focused on their education and future careers while avoiding tobacco, drugs, and other harmful substances. Miss C. N. Marak, Junior Rural Development Officer (JRDO), also spoke on the ill effects of tobacco and urged young people to make 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.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Sonami G. Sangma, Dental Surgeon, Ampati Civil Hospital, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, school authorities, students, health personnel, and participants for their support and cooperation.
In addition to the awareness programme, several health services and activities were conducted, including general health check-ups, oral and dental screening, tuberculosis (TB) screening, non-communicable disease (NCD) screening, mental health awareness and counselling, HIV screening, a quiz competition, and free distribution of dental kits to students.
The observance successfully sensitized students, teachers, and community members about the dangers of tobacco use while reinforcing the importance of healthy living and collective efforts towards building a tobacco-free society.
