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Health
Mizoram records highest tobacco use among 13‑15‑year‑old schoolchildren in India
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 12 Sep 2026, 11:33 AM
👁 30
A survey cited by The Times of India finds Mizoram has the largest share of teenagers aged 13‑15 using tobacco compared with other Indian states.
A recent survey reported by The Times of India indicates that Mizoram leads the nation in tobacco consumption among school‑going adolescents aged 13 to 15. The data, compiled from school‑based questionnaires, shows that a greater proportion of students in the state use tobacco products than their peers in any other Indian state.
Health officials have highlighted the finding as a cause for concern, noting that early initiation of tobacco use can increase the risk of chronic diseases later in life. The survey does not disclose exact usage rates, but its ranking underscores a regional disparity that may require targeted public‑health interventions.
The state government has previously launched anti‑tobacco campaigns in schools, yet the latest figures suggest that existing measures may need reinforcement. Experts recommend stronger enforcement of existing laws, increased awareness programmes, and community involvement to curb the trend among adolescents.
Stakeholders, including educators, parents, and health workers, are being urged to collaborate in creating a tobacco‑free environment for young learners. Continued monitoring will be essential to assess the impact of any new strategies aimed at reducing youth tobacco use in Mizoram.
Health officials have highlighted the finding as a cause for concern, noting that early initiation of tobacco use can increase the risk of chronic diseases later in life. The survey does not disclose exact usage rates, but its ranking underscores a regional disparity that may require targeted public‑health interventions.
The state government has previously launched anti‑tobacco campaigns in schools, yet the latest figures suggest that existing measures may need reinforcement. Experts recommend stronger enforcement of existing laws, increased awareness programmes, and community involvement to curb the trend among adolescents.
Stakeholders, including educators, parents, and health workers, are being urged to collaborate in creating a tobacco‑free environment for young learners. Continued monitoring will be essential to assess the impact of any new strategies aimed at reducing youth tobacco use in Mizoram.