YUPIA :  A joint market inspection and enforcement drive conducted in Doimukh on Thursday detected multiple trading licence violations and led to the seizure of tobacco products from shops operating near educational institutions.

The inspection was carried out in the vicinity of Government Higher Secondary School, Doimukh, and Government Middle School, Rono, by a joint team comprising officials from the district administration, Trade and Commerce Department and Doimukh Police Station. The team was led by Doimukh Circle Officer Nyalisa Raji.

During the drive, eight shops were found operating without valid trading licences, while three others were functioning with expired licences. Penalties amounting to Rs 3,000 were imposed on establishments found operating without valid licences.

As part of the enforcement action, the team seized visible tobacco products from shops located near the school premises in violation of regulations.

The officials also conducted an on-the-spot awareness programme for shopkeepers, educating them on procedures for obtaining and renewing trading licences through the Trade and Commerce Department.

Shop owners were instructed not to stock, display or sell tobacco products within a 100-yard radius of educational institutions and were sensitised about the provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003. They were warned that stricter action, including sealing of shops, could be initiated against repeat offenders.

Yupia Trade Development Officer Sorang Yapa informed that similar inspection and awareness drives would be conducted regularly to ensure compliance with licensing norms and tobacco control regulations. (DIPR)