Shillong, Aug 6: Meghalaya recorded its biggest-ever student mobilisation against tobacco this year, with 9,312 schools and 55 colleges joining the World No Tobacco Day 2026 campaign under the theme “Tobacco! Business of DEATH”.
Run from April 6 to June 10 under the Tobacco Free Educational Institutions, ToFEI, initiative, the drive was led jointly by the National Tobacco Control Programme, NHM, and the Department of Education, Government of Meghalaya, in partnership with Sambandh Health Foundation.
Every institution was tasked with two activities: an anti-tobacco rally and a signature campaign. Students took the message beyond school gates, collecting signatures from family members, neighbours, friends and villagers.
The impact was statewide. Over 25 lakh signatures were gathered and more than 6 lakh students participated in rallies. Specifically, 8,940 schools held rallies and 8,077 conducted signature campaigns. Among colleges, 50 organised rallies, 46 ran signature drives, and 15,458 students took part in awareness activities.
Awards were given at block, district and state levels. Schools were judged across four categories — Primary, Upper Primary, Secondary and Higher Secondary — through a transparent three-tier selection by Block, District and State Award Committees.
Officials stressed the urgency. Dr. Nabaneeta D. Mawrie, State Nodal Officer, NTCP Meghalaya, noted that 47% of adults aged 15+ in the state use tobacco, leading to an estimated 8,000 deaths annually, and said ToFEI remains one of the most effective measures to reduce prevalence.
Smt. Richa Kulkarni, IAS, State Project Director, SEMAM–Samagra Shiksha, said the engagement of 9,312 schools reflects a shared resolve and the role of education in building informed, responsible citizens.
Smt. Jennyfer J. Synrem, State Nodal Officer – ToFEI, Department of Education, credited principals, teachers and communities, adding that the campaign is raising awareness and paving the way for a healthier, tobacco-free future for children.
