A one-day training program on the role of Gram Panchayats in the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP) was conducted for the Sarpanches and Naib Sarpanches of Gram Panchayats under the Gunupur Panchayat Samiti. The program, held at the Gunupur Block Conference Hall, was jointly organized by Shakti Organisation and the Zilla Swastya Samiti, Rayagada.

Dr. Mamata Choudhury, the District Public Health Officer, led the training session, highlighting the crucial role of Panchayat leadership in curbing tobacco use in rural areas. She underscored the significance of community-driven initiatives in raising awareness and enforcing tobacco control measures effectively. The training included comprehensive discussions on the harmful effects of tobacco consumption, existing tobacco control policies, and community engagement strategies to create tobacco-free villages.

At the end of the programme, collective oath was taken by all participating Sarpanches and Naib Sarpanches, pledging to actively promote and implement tobacco-free initiatives in their respective villages.

Medical Officer of Jaganathpur CHC, Dr. Kali Prasad Panda, Assistant Manager of MCD, Mrs. Sanjukta Bag, and CDPO officials were present at the program. Shakti Training Coordinator, Mr. Panchanan Ghadai, facilitated the event.