The Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Nagaland, through the State Tobacco Control Cell under the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP), observed the state-level World No Tobacco Day 2025 at Bethel Higher Secondary School, Kohima.
This year’s observance featured the official launch of a 7-day digital campaign titled ”Exposing Tobacco Harms,” aimed at raising public awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and the manipulative tactics of the tobacco industry. The campaign will engage schools, health professionals, and communities across Nagaland to promote a tobacco-free environment and protect future generations. It will continue over the next seven days through official social media platforms, featuring informative videos, infographics, editorials, and radio talks to spread awareness and inspire collective action.
Anoop Khinchi, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, graced the occasion as the Special Guest and officially launched the campaign. In his address, he emphasized the Government of Nagaland’s commitment to tobacco control through strong policy, cross-sector collaboration, and community engagement.
Speaking on this year’s global theme, ”Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products,” Khinchi called for united action against deceptive marketing strategies that target youth through attractive packaging, social media, and misleading advertising. He urged students to avoid tobacco in any form and highlighted ongoing initiatives such as district-wide TOFEI implementation, tobacco-free villages, and the Tobacco Vendor Licensing system. He also noted that the state has notified teachers to act as enforcement officers for implementing COTPA Section 6(b), and schools should actively exercise this empowerment within their jurisdiction. All schools and medical establishments under DHFW are declared tobacco-free. He concluded by urging all stakeholders to support the tobacco-free movement.
The program was chaired by Dr. Tinurenla Anichari, Deputy Director (NVBDCP), and commenced with an invocation by Hechilo Semy, followed by a welcome address from Asalie Peseyie, Vice Principal, BHSS.
Dr. Arenla Walling, Additional Director (Dental) and State Nodal Officer (NTCP), introduced the event theme, highlighting the marketing tactics, flashy packaging, and deceptions used by the industry.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Mereninla Senlem, Director & HOD, DH&FW, and Guest of Honour. She highlighted the alarming tobacco usage rates in Nagaland—over 43% among adults and school-going children—which contribute significantly to oral cancer and other diseases. She encouraged students to stay informed, resist peer pressure, and reject the misleading tactics of the tobacco industry.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Neingutunuo Angami, Senior Dental Surgeon, NHAK.