Breathe easy: Tobacco-free youth campaign for healthier tomorrow

Shimla Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anupam Kashyap on Thursday launched the ‘Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 3.0’ during the third meeting of the District Tobacco Control Committee, held under his chairmanship. Officials from various departments, stakeholders and representatives of the National Tobacco Control Programme participated in the meeting.

The campaign will run across the district until December 8, featuring extensive public awareness activities in schools, colleges, panchayats, and urban local bodies. The DC said all activities will be documented on the National Tobacco Control Program portal and monitored by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Highlighting the seriousness of tobacco use as a social and health issue, he stressed the importance of keeping youth away from tobacco. “Joint efforts by all departments are essential to raise awareness among young people and create a tobacco-free environment,” he said.

The DC also reviewed the implementation of the COTPA Act, 2003, emphasising strict enforcement of the ban on smoking in public places. He instructed officials to ensure compliance with the Himachal Pradesh Retail Trade Licensing Act, 2016, regarding the sale of tobacco products in urban and rural areas.

He further directed all departments to strengthen public outreach campaigns on the harmful effects of tobacco. “This campaign will succeed only with active participation from all sections of society, especially the youth,” said the DC.

Sirmaur dist kicks off drive with student rally

Nahan: Sirmaur Deputy Commissioner Priyanka Verma flagged off a youth rally from the DC office today, marking the launch of the ‘Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 3.0’ under the National Tobacco Control Programme. The initiative aims to promote awareness among students and young citizens about the harmful effects of tobacco and other intoxicating substances.

The rally, comprising students from various educational institutions, passed through Nahan Bazaar, Mall Road and Gunnu Ghat before culminating at the office of the Chief Medical Officer. At the flag-off ceremony, the Deputy Commissioner administered a pledge to the youth to stay away from tobacco and contribute to building a healthier society. — OC

Kangra students rally for a healthier future

Dharamsala: With a strong message to protect the youth from the dangers of tobacco, the ‘Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 3.0’ was launched in Kangra by the Health Department. Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Vinay Kumar flagged off a student rally from Grace School of Nursing at Civil Hospital Kangra, marking the start of the 60-day campaign.

The event was led by Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Vivek Karol, who administered an anti-tobacco oath to all participants. Also present were District Health Officer Dr Rajesh Sood, Kangra SDM Ishant Jaswal, Tiara BMO Dr Vikram Katoch and SMO Dr Alpana, alongside nursing students and health officials. — OC

Chamba declares war on tobacco

Chamba: Chamba Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repaswal on Thursday launched the district-level ‘Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 3.0’. On the occasion, he also inaugurated the ‘Saksham Campaign’ being implemented by Chamba police to raise awareness about the ill effects of narcotic and psychotropic substances.

Repaswal said under the campaign, 30 pre-selected awareness activities will be organised across the district till December 8. The campaign aims to declare 400 educational institutions and 30 villages tobacco-free within the stipulated period. Reviewing the action plan prepared by the Health Department, the DC issued directions to all officers concerned for the effective implementation of the campaign. — OC