27 May : The State level Advocacy Workshop on Tobacco Controls Laws was held on 27th May 2009 at Zonal Council Hall, Kohima with Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Kuzholuzo Nienu as chief guest. Speaking at the inaugural function, the chief guest said that Tobacco related problem is a great concern for everyone and the world over is alarmed by its ill effects. He further mentioned that in Nagaland the consumption of tobacco stands at 48% as against the National average of 40% whereas male tobacco users stand at 68% against the National average of 57% while female tobacco users stand at about 28% as against the National average figure of 10.8%.
The Minister also said that regardless of how well we bring out an Act or Rule, ultimately its activity would depend on how effectively the Acts/Rules are implemented on the ground. He said that the use of tobacco is one of the leading preventable causes of death in the world. Tobacco affects everyone, whether one is a user or otherwise and therefore, it is only through the collective efforts of every citizen that we can implement this goal of ours, he said.
Additional Chief Secretary, School Education, Banuo Z. Jamir also addressed the function. The programme was chaired by Commissioner & Secretary, H&FW Department, Menukhol John and vote of thanks was proposed by Director, Health, Dr. T.L. Nakhro.