A joint enforcement team conducting a market inspection in Doimukh town of Arunachal Pradesh’s Papum Pare district found 11 commercial establishments violating trade regulations, including operating without valid licenses and selling tobacco products near educational institutions.
The inspection was carried out in areas surrounding Government Higher Secondary School, Doimukh, and Government Middle School, Rono, as part of an effort to ensure compliance with trade regulations and maintain a tobacco-free environment around schools.
The joint team comprised officials from the district administration, Trade and Commerce Department and Doimukh Police Station. The drive was led by Doimukh Circle Officer Nyalisa Raji and included Trade Development Officer Sorang Yapa, Trade and Commerce Inspector Toko Mira, departmental staff and police personnel.
During the inspection, authorities found that eight shops were operating without valid trading licenses. In addition, three establishments were found conducting business with expired licenses. Officials imposed penalties on the violators and collected a total of Rs 3,000 for breaches of licensing regulations.
The enforcement team also took action against shops found displaying tobacco products near educational institutions. Officials seized visible tobacco products from establishments located close to school premises, citing violations of restrictions on the sale and display of tobacco products around schools.
Alongside enforcement measures, the team conducted an awareness programme for local traders and business owners. Shopkeepers were informed about the procedures for obtaining and renewing trading licenses through the Trade and Commerce Department and were encouraged to comply with all legal requirements governing commercial activities.
Officials specifically instructed traders not to stock, display or sell tobacco products within a 100-yard radius of schools and other educational institutions. They warned that any future violations would invite stricter legal action.
Authorities said repeat offenders could face stronger measures, including the sealing of their establishments if they continue to violate regulations despite warnings and enforcement action.
The district administration stated that the inspection drive was undertaken to promote lawful business practices, strengthen regulatory compliance and protect students from exposure to tobacco products near educational institutions.
Officials added that similar inspections and awareness programmes may be conducted in the future to ensure that businesses operate in accordance with the law and that public spaces around schools remain safe and healthy for students.
