ADC Kupwara reviews implementation of NTCP, COTPA

KUPWARA, NOVEMBER 29: On the directions of Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, Ms. Ayushi Sudan, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Kupwara, Mohd Rouf Rehman today chaired a meeting of District Level Coordination Committee (DLCC) for implementation of National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) and COTPA in the district.
It was informed that COTPA-2003 aims to regulate the production, supply, and distribution of tobacco products.
The meeting held a threadbare discussion regarding the constitution of enforcement squad, constitution of designated committees for verification of Tobacco Free Education Institution claims, besides, inter departmental coordination mechanism and challenges of implementation of NTCP in the district.
Addressing the meeting the ADC asked the officers to join their heads and hands to ensure proper implementation of provisions of NTCP and COTPA regulations to save the young generation from becoming the victim of tobacco products. He enjoined upon the officers to ensure no smoking is done at hospitals, schools, government offices, food establishments, bus stands, public transport, shopping complexes, saloons, public parks and playgrounds. The officers were directed to ensure that no sale of tobacco products happens within 100 yards of educational institutions.
The ADC put emphasis on the need for awareness across blocks, villages and panchayat levels regarding the ill effects of consuming tobacco to eliminate the menace from the region. To ensure prohibition of smoking in minors, it was held that the sale of tobacoo products to a minor will invite a penalty of Rs.10000 on the seller.
ASP Handwara, Dy. SP Kupwara, Nodal Officer DTCC, AC Food Safety and other concerned officers and officials attended the meeting.