Nagaon Hosts TFYC 3.0 Training to Empower Teachers for a Tobacco-Free Future

Nagaon: Taking a firm step toward protecting young people from the harmful effects of tobacco, the District Tobacco Control Cell (DTCC) of Nagaon held a special training programme for teachers at the B.P. Civil Hospital conference hall on Monday. The day-long event, conducted under the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP), was organised in collaboration with the District Legal Service Authority (DLSA), Nagaon, and the office of the Inspector of Schools, Nagaon. The programme formed part of the nationwide Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 3.0 (TFYC 3.0).

TFYC 3.0 is a 60-day national initiative led by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in partnership with the Ministry of Education. The campaign aims to create tobacco-free schools and colleges, encourage students to quit tobacco, and ensure that tobacco control laws are effectively enforced. At the heart of this effort is the belief that teachers play a key role in guiding and safeguarding the next generation.

The training in Nagaon featured a panel of experts from the health, legal and education sectors. Dr. Tapan Kumar Saikia, Joint Director of Health Services, Nagaon, delivered the keynote address, stressing the urgency of addressing rising tobacco use among the youth. Munmee Neog, Secretary, DLSA, highlighted the legal tools available to protect students and maintain tobacco-free zones in educational institutions.

Earlier, Dr. Bidyawati Hazarika, Superintendent of B.P. Civil Hospital, welcomed participants and reaffirmed the hospital’s longstanding commitment to public health. DTCC District Nodal Officer Dharitri Patowari explained the goals of TFYC 3.0 and the important role teachers will play in carrying out the campaign at the grassroots level.

Experts such as Dr. Jiauddin Ahmed, District Nodal Officer, NMHP, and Ghalib F. Ahmed, District Programme Manager, NPCB & VI, spoke on the psychological and behavioural factors that lead adolescents toward tobacco use. Clinical Psychologist Geeta Baruah conducted an engaging session on counselling methods and early-stage intervention techniques that teachers can adopt in their schools.

Teachers from different schools across the district took part in the training, gaining practical information on laws, counselling approaches and ways to build a supportive, tobacco-free school environment. The District Information and Public Relations Officer, Mandira Chayengya, was also present, ensuring that the campaign’s message is carried effectively to the wider public.

The programme marked an important milestone in Nagaon’s ongoing efforts to shield young people from tobacco addiction. By equipping educators with the right knowledge and skills, the district has reinforced its commitment to a healthier and tobacco-free tomorrow.

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