To review the implementation and enforcement of Cigarette and Other Tobacco Product Act (COPTA) in the District, a meeting of District Level Coordination Committee (DLCC) was today held under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat here at Meeting Hall of DC Office Complex.

At the outset, DC directed the Officers and other stakeholders to ensure strict compliance to Cigarette and Other Tobacco Product Act (COTPA) around all educational institutions including schools and colleges as a part of Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (ToFFEI) initiative.

The DC further directed for conducting inspections by the heads of institutions of all City colleges and schools to check the implementation of Cigarette and Other Tobacco Product Act (COTPA) around the institutions as per the laid guidelines to save young generations.

On the occasion, Dr Bilal emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to combat use of tobacco products in the district. He said that tobacco use is a major public health concern that requires coordinated efforts from all sectors of society.

The DC further emphasized that we must ensure that our educational institutions are free from tobacco influence, and this begins with the implementation of the Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (ToFFEI) initiative. He stressed the importance of vendor regulation and coordinated approach by all stakeholders, including law enforcement, health officials, and the community, to ensure compliance and reduce the availability of tobacco products.

He also stressed the need for regular enforcement drives and continuous awareness campaigns at all levels to educate the public about the dangers of tobacco use.

The DC underscored that the use of technological interventions is pivotal in ensuring effective implementation of the COTPA to take action against the violators as per the Act.

The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Syed Ahmad Kataria; Superintendent of Police, Umar Shah; Officers of all line Departments and representatives of various NGOs.