Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Oct 5: The Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir (DHSK) has imposed fines exceeding Rs 2 lakh on violators of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) in the Kashmir Division until August this year, according to official figures.
These figures were disclosed during a media sensitization workshop held today under the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) here attended by top officials, doctors, and other personnel working in the Valley.
The data revealed a significant increase in fine collections and the number of challans issued in 2023-24 until August compared to previous years. Dr. Mir Mushtaq, the Nodal Officer for NTCP in Kashmir, provided insight into the statistics, stating that in the year 2020-21, a total of 279 challans were issued, resulting in a fine collection of Rs 18,290.
“For the year 2021-22, the number of challans increased to 324, with fines amounting to just over Rs 20,000. However, due to sustained efforts and stricter enforcement, in the year 2023-24 until August, we have recorded 2,967 challans, collecting fines totaling over Rs 2 lakh 37 thousand,” he announced.
Dr Mushtaq emphasized that striving for a tobacco-free environment is not only a legal obligation but also a crucial public health imperative.
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