Awareness Campaign Launched on World No Tobacco Day; Call Issued to Build a Tobacco-Free Society
Ranchi, May 30: On the eve of World No Tobacco Day, an awareness program cum orientation workshop was organized under the joint aegis of the Ranchi District Administration and the Health Department. The program was inaugurated by District Magistrate-cum-Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri, who flagged off an "Awareness Chariot" (Rath) with the objective of sensitizing the public about the adverse effects of tobacco.
On this occasion, officials and staff members were administered a pledge to abstain from tobacco. Additionally, public awareness posters themed "Quit Tobacco, Add Life" were released, and a signature campaign was conducted to encourage public participation.
This year, the theme for World No Tobacco Day is "Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products." During the program, a specific message was conveyed to the youth, urging them to stay away from tobacco and nicotine products and to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Addressing the orientation workshop, Civil Surgeon Dr. Prabhat Kumar stated that tobacco consumption is a primary cause of numerous serious and life-threatening diseases. He explained that tobacco increases the risk of fatal ailments such as lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, COPD, and cancers of the mouth and throat. He appealed to the public to adopt a tobacco-free lifestyle and to help raise awareness among others as well.
The workshop also provided information regarding the objectives and activities of the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP), as well as the legal provisions related to tobacco control. During the meeting, emphasis was placed on the effective implementation of the "Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions" initiative to protect children and youth from the harmful effects of tobacco. Officials reiterated that the sale and consumption of tobacco and tobacco products are strictly prohibited within a radius of 100 yards of any educational institution.
The program was attended by District Program Manager Praveen Kumar Singh, District Accounts Manager Tarapad Koiri, an NTCP Social Worker, and students from the ANMTC, along with officials from various departments and healthcare workers. All participants pledged to generate widespread public awareness for the creation of a tobacco-free society and the protection of public health.
