SRINAGAR: On the directions Secretary to the Government, Health and Medical Education, Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, a divisional-level workshop on Tobacco Control and PECA (Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act) was organized by the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, her.
Director Health Services Kashmir, Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Rather was the chief guest on the occasion, which was besides graced by several distinguished dignitaries, including Dr. Amit Yadav, Deputy Director, Vital Strategies; Dr. Abdul Rouf Bhat, Project Director, AIDS Control Society, Jammu and Kashmir.
In his address, Director Health Services Kashmir emphasized the importance of tobacco control, particularly in protecting children from its harmful influence. He stressed that children are the future, and it is imperative to ensure they are kept away from tobacco, which is an addictive substance that can destroy their future and society.
To reinforce the role of effective tobacco control, Dr. Amit Yadav, Deputy Director of Tobacco Control, and Dr. Majid Shafi, Nodal Officer Mental Health Kashmir, delivered presentations on various provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and PECA. Their insights covered the legal frameworks and strategies necessary for robust tobacco regulation and public health safety.
Earlier, Dr. Mir Mushtaq, Nodal Officer for the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP) in Kashmir, provided a detailed presentation on the current status of the NTCP program in the region. He highlighted the ongoing efforts and future plans to curb tobacco use and its associated health risks.
The meeting was attended by Chief Medical Officers, DHOs, Medical Superintendents, various NGOs and stakeholders from various departments committed to tobacco control and public health enhancement.