Marking World No Tobacco Day 2026, Assam Rifles organised a series of awareness programmes and medical outreach activities in Sehlon, Kovang and Chakpikarong villages of Chandel district yesterday. The initiative was aimed at promoting a healthy, tobacco-free lifestyle and spreading awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption.
This year’s World No Tobacco Day theme, “Protecting children from tobacco industry interference,” underscores the importance of safeguarding young people from tobacco marketing and addiction.
The awareness drive commenced in Sehlon and Kovang villages, where Assam Rifles medical personnel conducted a health awareness session and a medical camp for nearly 200 villagers. During the programme, the Medical Officer highlighted the adverse physical and mental health effects of tobacco use and stressed the importance of adopting healthy lifestyle practices. Essential medicines were distributed, and health counselling was provided to the attendees.
Later, the outreach programme was conducted at Oriental Children Home in Chakpikarong, where 45 participants, including 40 students and five teachers, took part in an interactive awareness session. The participants were educated about the serious health, social and economic consequences of tobacco consumption. Students were encouraged to act as ambassadors of change by spreading awareness within their families and communities.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge by 245 participants to abstain from tobacco products and contribute towards building a disciplined and drug-free society.
The initiative reflects Assam Rifles’ continued commitment to public health awareness and the holistic development of remote communities across Manipur.
