HT Correspondent
MORIGAON, Aug 7: A significant workshop on ‘Tobacco Free Schools and Tobacco Free Villages’ was conducted at the district commissioner’s Office in Morigaon on Monday. The workshop, chaired by district commissioner Devashish Sharma, IAS, aimed to address the issue of tobacco consumption in schools and villages.
Among the attendees were district superintendent of police Hemant Kumar Das, renowned social worker Mileswar Patar, officials from the Morigaon District Circle, Education department representatives, district social welfare officers, principals from Charaibahi Higher Secondary School, Jagiroad, and Bhakatgaon Sankardev Vidya Niketan Schools, along with teachers from Laharighat School and education officers from four education blocks. The workshop was effectively moderated by Dr Jaya Prabha Boro, nodal officer of the District Tobacco Control Cell in Morigaon.
During the workshop, superintendent of police Hemant Kumar Das elucidated the provisions of the ‘National Tobacco Control Act 2003’ and its implications for combating tobacco usage. Dr Jaya Prabha Boro elaborated on the guidelines and strategies for creating tobacco-free environments in schools, emphasising the importance of fostering healthy habits among students.
Social worker Mileswar Patar provided valuable insights and advice on promoting a tobacco-free society. The gathering collectively pledged to make concerted efforts in ensuring the youth are protected from the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and to make schools and villages free from tobacco use.
District commissioner Devashish Sharma urged all government officials to take proactive measures in this regard, emphasising the importance of safeguarding the younger generation from tobacco addiction.
Additionally, the meeting decided unanimously to hold a further discussion with the office bearers of the Morigaon Chambers of Commerce later to strengthen their commitment to achieving a tobacco-free society.