Mizoram Faces High Tobacco Use Among Youth and Adults

Mizoram is grappling with alarming tobacco use rates, particularly among adolescents aged 13 to 15, where 58% are reported as users. The state also ranks second in adult tobacco consumption at 58.7%. Health Minister Lalrinpuii highlighted the serious health implications, including high cancer rates, and called for families to adopt tobacco-free lifestyles. The state has been observing Anti-Tobacco Day since 2013 and is considering new initiatives to combat tobacco use. Recent awards were given to schools for their efforts in anti-tobacco challenges. A new Global Adult Tobacco Survey is underway, alongside plans for a youth survey.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 12, 2026, 10:44 IST

Tobacco Use Statistics in Mizoram

A file image of Mizoram Health Minister Lalrinpuii. (Photo:@jon_suante/X)

Aizawl, Sept 12: Recent survey data indicates that Mizoram has the highest rate of tobacco consumption among adolescents aged 13 to 15 in India, with 58% of students in this age group identified as users.

For individuals aged 15 and older, the tobacco usage rate in Mizoram stands at 58.7%, ranking the state as the second highest in the nation for tobacco use, according to findings from the Global Youth Tobacco Survey-4 and the Global Adult Tobacco Survey conducted in 2016-17.

Health Minister Lalrinpuii expressed grave concern over the high levels of tobacco consumption, especially since Mizoram also reports the highest cancer rates in India relative to its population. She urged families to strive for a tobacco-free lifestyle.

During the 13th State Anti-Tobacco Day event in Aizawl, she emphasized the need for intensified efforts to reduce tobacco use and mentioned that the government is exploring new initiatives funded by revenue from cess.

Mizoram has been observing State Anti-Tobacco Day since 2013, becoming the first state in India to establish such a day.

A new Global Adult Tobacco Survey is currently in progress, and plans for another Global Youth Tobacco Survey are also underway.

During the event, two schools in Mizoram were honored for their achievements in the 2025 ToFEI-School Challenge. PM Shri Government Kawrthah Primary School-1 secured the first prize in the Foundation Category, while Government Leitlangpui Higher Secondary School received a consolation award.

This program was organized collaboratively by the National Tobacco Control Programme under the National Health Mission and the Indian Society on Tobacco and Health in Mizoram.