A joint market inspection and enforcement drive in Doimukh town of Arunachal Pradesh’s Papum Pare district uncovered several commercial establishments operating without valid trading licences and violations related to the sale of tobacco products near educational institutions.
The operation was carried out around Government Higher Secondary School, Doimukh, and Government Middle School, Rono, by a team comprising officials from the district administration, Trade and Commerce Department and police.
The inspection team was led by Doimukh Circle Officer Nyalisa Raji and included Trade Development Officer Sorang Yapa, Trade and Commerce Inspector Toko Mira, departmental personnel and officials from Doimukh Police Station.
During the drive, authorities found eight shops functioning without valid trading licences, while three other establishments were operating with expired licences. Penalties amounting to Rs 3,000 were collected from traders found violating licensing regulations.
Officials also seized tobacco products that were visibly displayed in shops located near school premises, citing violations of restrictions on the sale of tobacco products in the vicinity of educational institutions.
As part of the exercise, the team conducted an awareness programme for traders and educated shop owners on the procedures for obtaining and renewing licences through the Trade and Commerce Department.
Authorities instructed shopkeepers not to stock, display or sell tobacco products within a 100-yard radius of schools and other educational institutions. They warned that repeated violations could invite stricter legal measures, including the sealing of business establishments.
The district administration said the enforcement drive was aimed at promoting lawful commercial practices and ensuring a tobacco-free environment around educational institutions in the area.
