Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept 15: In an effort to ensure the health and safety of students, the Revenue officials of N&M Andaman District conducted inspections of shops located within a 100-yard radius of schools, Anganwadi Centres and college under Mayabunder Tehsil. This initiative was part of the ongoing enforcement of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, which prohibits the sale of tobacco products within this specified distance.
During the inspection, shopkeepers were reminded of the strict provisions under Section 4 and 6 of the COTPA, 2003, which specifically bans the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products to anyone under the age of 18 and within a 100-yard radius of educational institutions. Revenue staff personally engaged with the shopkeepers, informing them that selling such products in violation of this law is a punishable offence.
Key points communicated to shopkeepers included ‘Prohibition on Sale of Cigarettes and Tobacco Products’: Shopkeepers were clearly advised against the sale of any tobacco-related products within the restricted zone. They were informed that violations of COTPA, 2003 can result in penalties, including fines and legal action, which will be strictly enforced to protect the health and well-being of students.
The Revenue Department is committed to create a safer and healthier environment for students and urges all shopkeepers to cooperate in maintaining this mandate. Further inspections will continue, and strict actions will be taken against violators.
The Department has also called upon the public to report any breaches of COTPA regulations to local authorities to help in safeguarding students from exposure to tobacco products.
