Enforce tobacco products Act strictly: Vohra

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, July 7

Lax enforcement of the tobacco control legislation in Jammu and Kashmir has led Governor NN Vohra to issue directions to the administration for ensuring strict enforcement of Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003.

The Governor, in a direction issued here on Saturday, ordered the administration to fully gear up for ensuring that anti-tobacco information was disseminated among people in every corner of the state.

Appreciating the laudable work carried out by the J&K Voluntary Health & Development Association for highlighting the dangerous effects of smoking, the Governor urged civil society and non-profit organisations to join hands to collectively combat the menace.

Smoking remains the second largest risk factor for early death and disability. To further reduce its impact, there is a need to intensify tobacco control efforts and discourage the menace, at all levels, in J&K. The Governor directed the administrative machinery to ensure that no person is allowed to smoke in public places except in the special smoking zones in hotels, restaurants and at airports.

He stressed the need to effectively check advertisements of tobacco products as these were prohibited under the law. He directed a strict check on selling of tobacco products to person below the age of 18 years at any place within 100 metre radius from the outer boundary of an educational institution.

He has also stressed launch of a vibrant publicity and awareness campaign among the masses, especially youth, to discourage the consumption of tobacco products. Such an initiative would help in improving the health of the younger generation.

‘Spread awareness’ 

The Governor, in a direction issued here on Saturday, ordered the administration to fully gear up for ensuring that anti-tobacco information was disseminated among people in every corner of the state.