Guwahati: Media Workshop in Assam Empowers Tobacco Control

GUWAHATI: In a significant stride toward reinforcing tobacco control initiatives, the State Tobacco Control Cell (STCC) of Assam partnered with the International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) in New Delhi to organize a state-level media sensitization workshop on Tobacco Control in Guwahati. This collaborative effort took place on Monday, highlighting the vital role of media in the battle against tobacco.

The workshop featured a diverse panel of experts, including Dr. H.K. Bhattachryya, Nodal Officer of the State Tobacco Control Cell, Assam; Dr. Arundhati Deka, Former SNO of STCC; Dr. Shivam Kapoor, Technical Advisor from The Union, New Delhi. Participants included representatives from various media organizations in the state, gathering at a Hotel in Guwahati.

The event kicked off with a warm welcome from Rudhir Prakash Sarma, Divisional Coordinator of The UNION-STCC, Upper Assam Division. It began with the rendition of the state anthem, symbolizing unity and commitment to the cause. The program consisted of informative discussions on critical topics related to tobacco control.

Dr. HK Bhattacharjee, the State Nodal Officer, provided insights into the tobacco burden and the pivotal role of tobacco cessation centers. Dr. Arundhati Deka shed light on the COTPA Act 2003, offering valuable perspectives. Dr. Shivam Kapoor emphasized the essential role of media in tobacco control. Mr. Satyajit Das, the State Project Coordinator for The Union, articulated the workshop's objectives, underlining the media's significance in combatting COTPA Act 2003 violations and supporting tobacco control efforts in the state.

Distinguished guests, including Mr. Pranoy Bordoloi, Consulting Editor of NK TV; RJ Mandy, Cluster Programming Head from Gupshup FM; Mr. Maruf Alam, News Editor at DD News; and Ms. Chayamoni Bhuyan, Senior Executive Editor at News Live, underscored the media's influential role in supporting government and civil society initiatives against tobacco use. They emphasized the media's contribution to cultivating a tobacco-free generation.

The workshop concluded with a pledge against tobacco use, led by Mr. Pranoy Bordoloi. Ms. Nabashree Gogoi, Deputy Director of the Directorate of Health Services, Government of Assam, expressed gratitude to all participants and stakeholders for their contributions. This event left a resounding message of unity and determination in the fight against tobacco use.

This workshop underscores the pivotal role of media in advancing tobacco control efforts and collaborative work towards a tobacco-free future.

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