Arunachal Pradesh has been named the ‘Best Performing State’ in the smaller states category for its exemplary efforts under the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 2.0 (TFYC 2.0). The recognition was conferred by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India, in acknowledgment of the state’s extensive awareness and prevention drive against tobacco use among the youth. The award was presented during a formal ceremony by V. Hekali Zhimomi, Additional Secretary, MoHFW, and Dr. L. SwastiCharan, Deputy Director General, Directorate General of Health Services. Receiving the honour on behalf of the Directorate of Health Services, Government of Arunachal Pradesh were Dr. Hatobin Mai, In-charge State Programme Officer (NTCP), and Ms. Karpa Marde, State Consultant, NTCP.
The campaign, which ran from September 23 to November 24, 2024, aimed to sensitize young people about the dangers of tobacco, prevent initiation, offer cessation support, and raise awareness about misleading tobacco industry tactics. The campaign adopted a multi-pronged strategy that involved education, community outreach, and law enforcement components, tailored specifically for youth engagement. Arunachal Pradesh rolled out TFYC 2.0 across all 26 districts implementing the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP).
The campaign reached grassroots levels in towns such as Yupia (Papum Pare), Pasighat (East Siang), Bomdila (West Kameng), Ziro (Lower Subansiri), Daporijo (Upper Subansiri), Aalo (West Siang), Seppa (East Kameng), Tezu (Lohit), Yingkiong (Upper Siang), Roing (Lower Dibang Valley), and Tawang. Other active locations included Hawai (Anjaw), Longding, Anini (Dibang Valley), Boleng (Siang), Koloriang (Kurung Kumey), Palin (Kra Daadi), Namsai, Tato (Shi Yomi), Itanagar Capital Region (ICR), Lemmi (Pakke Kessang), Raga (Kamle), Basar (Lepa Rada), and Siji (Lower Siang).
