Unmasking Tobacco: Mobilizing Meghalaya for a Healthier Tomorrow

Nearly 50% of Meghalaya's population over 15 uses tobacco, leading to 8,000 annual deaths. The state's health officials launch the 'World No Tobacco Day 2026' campaign, aiming to protect youth and communities through educational initiatives and public awareness. The campaign is crucial to counter nicotine addiction.

In Meghalaya, about half of the state's population aged over 15 are tobacco users, both in smoked and smokeless forms, contributing to approximately 8,000 tobacco-related deaths annually. Health officials are raising the alarm over this escalating health crisis.

Dr. Nabaneeta D Mawrie, the State Nodal Officer of the National Tobacco Control Programme, emphasized the urgent need for intervention at the launch of the 'World No Tobacco Day 2026' campaign. Themed 'Tobacco! The Business of Death', the initiative highlights the deceitful practices of the tobacco industry.

The campaign, which began on April 6, will extend across schools and colleges statewide, aiming to mobilize educational institutions to conduct rallies and community programs. Officials stress that lasting change requires converting awareness into actionable public health strategies.