Itanagar, May 21: In a major public health initiative, the Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, has officially declared all hospital and healthcare premises across the State as strict “Tobacco-Free Zones” with effect from May 19, 2026.
The directive, issued under the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, applies to all government hospitals, Community Health Centres (CHCs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), sub-centres, medical colleges and private healthcare facilities across Arunachal Pradesh.
According to the order issued by Commissioner (Health & Family Welfare) Pawan Kumar Sain, the use of any form of tobacco — including smoking, chewing tobacco, gutkha and paan masala — has been strictly prohibited within hospital premises, including wards, offices, corridors, parking areas, gardens and canteens.
The notification also reiterates the COTPA provision banning the sale and distribution of tobacco products within a 100-yard radius of any healthcare institution.
As part of the enforcement measures, all healthcare facilities have been directed to prominently display “No Tobacco Zone” and “Tobacco Kills” signboards at key locations including entry gates, waiting areas, and conspicuous locations across the premises. Additionally, tobacco disposal boxes will be placed at entry points, requiring visitors carrying tobacco products to deposit them before entering hospital premises.
Medical Superintendents and Medical Officers In-Charge of respective healthcare institutions have been authorised to function as “Tobacco Monitors” to ensure compliance and report violations.
The order further prohibits spitting of tobacco products within hospital premises, citing its role in spreading infectious diseases. No designated smoking areas will be permitted within any hospital campus.
To support tobacco users willing to quit, all district hospitals and medical colleges have been instructed to provide counselling services and referrals to district tobacco cessation centres.
The department stated that surprise enforcement drives will be conducted regularly by district administrations and District Tobacco Control Cells. Anyone found violating the Tobacco-Free guidelines – whether staff, patients, or visitors – will face disciplinary action and penalties as per the law.
Appealing for public cooperation, the Health Department emphasised that hospitals are places of healing and maintaining a tobacco-free environment is essential for protecting patients, healthcare workers and visitors from the harmful effects of tobacco and second-hand smoke.