Anti-Tobacco Squadron Targets Shops Near Schools in Bomdila

In a decisive move to curb youth access to tobacco, the anti-tobacco flying squad in Bomdila has intensified its efforts. On October 10, officials conducted unannounced inspections targeting shops within close proximity to educational institutions. This operation is part of the broader Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign (TFYC) 2.0 aimed at creating a healthier environment for the younger population.

Enforcement Drive Under TFYC 2.0

The Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 2.0, launched on September 24, is a strategic initiative by the Department of Tobacco Control (DTC) to eliminate tobacco sales near schools. The campaign will run until November 23 and includes a total of 16 enforcement drives across various regions.

• Campaign Duration: September 24 – November 23
• Total Enforcement Drives: 16
• Target Areas: Shops within 100 yards of educational institutions

Led by Pobing Gyati, the Singchung CO, the squad comprised key officials including DTC DPO Dr. SK Thongon, SMO Dr. T Droima, Rupa PS SI Nikam, and their respective teams from Bomdila DMO and Singchung PHC. Their coordinated efforts aim to reduce the accessibility of tobacco products to minors, addressing a critical public health concern.

Significant Seizures and Fines Imposed

During the latest inspection in Sinchung township and the Tenga market, the flying squad seized a substantial quantity of tobacco products. The operation targeted stores that violated the Cigarettes & Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003, by selling tobacco within restricted zones.

Seizure Details:

Location	Products Seized	Actions Taken
Sinchung Township	Various tobacco products	Seized and disposed
Tenga Market	Various tobacco products	Seized and fined

Shopkeepers found in violation were fined accordingly, and the confiscated tobacco products were disposed of under the supervision of Pobing Gyati. These measures are intended to serve as a deterrent against future violations and to reinforce the importance of adhering to tobacco control laws.

Community Impact and Reactions

The crackdown has garnered mixed reactions from the local business community. While some applaud the efforts to protect youth from tobacco exposure, others express concerns about the economic implications for small businesses.

“We’re going to lose 25 to 35% of sales,” said FavTrip gas station owner Babir Sultan. “We don’t sell lottery or liquor. My livelihood depends on this business.”

Sultan, who owns four FavTrip stores in Kansas City and Grandview, fears that the ban could significantly impact his revenue. He highlighted the challenges of relocating banned products and the potential loss of tax revenue, which amounts to approximately $1.6 million annually for the city.

Strengthening Public Health Initiatives

The Ministry of Health (MoH) emphasizes that the primary goal of these enforcement drives is to enhance public health by reducing tobacco consumption among youth. Tobacco use remains a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), accounting for 69% of deaths in Bhutan, according to the National Health Survey (NHS) 2023.

Key Public Health Measures:

• Tobacco Cessation Programs: Expanding support for individuals to quit smoking.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Intensifying efforts to educate the population about the dangers of tobacco use.
• Taxation Policies: Reviewing and potentially increasing tobacco taxes to reduce consumption.

By implementing these measures, the MoH aims to create a comprehensive strategy that not only restricts access to tobacco but also promotes healthier lifestyle choices across the community.