Workshop held to boost implementation of Tobacco-Free Schools initiative in Mizoram

Aizawl, Oct 2025 : A Sensitization Workshop for District Level Officials for Effective Implementation of the School Rally Challenge for Tobacco Awareness and Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI) Guidelines was held today, October 28, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the SCERT Auditorium, Aizawl.

The workshop was organized under the initiative of the Ministry of Education, jointly by the National Population Education Project (NPEP) of NCERT, the Population Education Cell, SCERT Mizoram, and the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Participants included District Education Officers (DEOs), DIET Principals, officers implementing ToFEI initiatives in DEO offices, State and District Nodal Officers, and members of the Tobacco Control Teams from both the Directorate of School Education and SCERT.

The inaugural session of the workshop was chaired by Pu P.C. Vanlalruata, Deputy Director, SCERT, who outlined the objectives and importance of the event. Dr. Zoramthangi Renthlei, Additional Director (D), DHME & State Nodal Officer, NTCP, delivered a keynote address, highlighting that Mizoram continues to have one of the highest rates of tobacco consumption in India. She stressed the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat this issue and protect children and youth from tobacco use. She emphasized that, unlike other substances, tobacco is particularly dangerous due to its widespread availability and social acceptability, making prevention among the younger generation critically important.

Dr. Lalduhawmi Thomte, Joint Director, SCERT, expressed appreciation for organizing this important programme for the first time and discussed the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003 (COTPA). She elaborated on the Act’s key provisions, including bans on tobacco advertising, prohibition of selling tobacco near educational institutions, restrictions on appealing packaging, and mandatory display of health warnings on all tobacco products.

During the session, a pledge against tobacco use was administered under the guidance of Dr. Zoramthangi Renthlei, reaffirming participants’ commitment to creating tobacco-free educational environments. The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Pi Zozikpuii, Lecturer, SCERT, who appreciated the efforts of all departments and participants in promoting a tobacco-free Mizoram.