9,312 schools, 55 colleges take part in anti-tobacco activities across state
Shillong, Aug 6: On this World No Tobacco Day this, Meghalaya has set a record of largest-ever mobilisation of schools and colleges against tobacco use even as the fact remains that around 8,000 lives are lost due to tobacco use every year in the state.
The state-wide campaign from April 6 to June 10 under the theme “Tobacco! Business of DEATH” witnessed 9,312 schools and 55 colleges taking part in anti-tobacco activities.
National Tobacco Control Programme, NHM, and state’s Department of Education held the campaign in coordination with Sambandh Health Foundation.
Every institution was tasked with two activities – holding rallies against tobacco and running a signature campaign in their communities – under the campaign.
Officials said 8,940 schools conducted anti-tobacco rallies and 8,077 schools organised signature campaigns.
Among colleges, 50 organised rallies, 46 held signature campaigns, and 15,458 students participated in awareness activities.
In total, students collected over 25 lakh signatures from family members, neighbours and villagers, and more than 6 lakh students took part in rallies statewide.
Dr Nabaneeta D Mawrie, State Nodal Officer, NTCP Meghalaya, said the scale of participation was critical given the state’s tobacco burden.
“Tobacco not only claims the lives of its primary consumers but also harms our environment. With 47% of adults (aged 15+) in our state using this product, it results in the deaths of 8,000 people annually in Meghalaya. We are committed to implementing the ToFEI strategy as one of our region’s most effective measures to reduce tobacco prevalence,” she said.
The campaign also strengthened the Tobacco Free Educational Institutions, ToFEI, initiative. Schools were evaluated in four categories — Primary, Upper Primary, Secondary and Higher Secondary — through a three-tier selection process at block, district and state levels, and awards were presented for outstanding efforts.
Richa Kulkarni, State Project Director, SEMAM–Samagra Shiksha, Meghalaya, said schools are central to building a tobacco-free future.
“The engagement of 9,312 schools in the WNTD’26 Campaign reflects this shared resolve and reinforces the pivotal role of schools in nurturing informed, confident, and responsible future citizens. Together, we are investing in the health and well-being of generations to come,” she said.
Jennyfer J Synrem, State Nodal Officer – ToFEI, Department of Education, added that the participation reflected leadership at the institutional level.
“The participation of 9,312 schools in the WNTD’26 Campaign reflects the strong leadership of our Principals, the continuous commitment of our teachers and the collective efforts of the education system. Together, these efforts are not only raising awareness but also paving the way for a healthier, tobacco free future for our children,” she said.
Observed annually on May 31, World No Tobacco Day aims to raise awareness on the harms of tobacco and protect children and youth from addiction.
