Srinagar, May 31: Professor and Head of the Department of Community Medicine at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, Dr S Muhammad Salim Khan on Friday said there is an urgent need to educate the public about the dangers of cigarettes and other tobacco products, which are known to cause numerous diseases.
Dr Khan advocated for the stringent implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and proposed the imposition of heavy taxes on tobacco products to deter consumption.
It is also necessary to remove promotional hoardings by tobacco companies from shops and commercial areas, despite the absence of direct advertising.
The Department of Community Medicine at GMC Srinagar, in collaboration with Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Hazratbal, commemorated ‘World No Tobacco Day’ on Friday. The event, held on the school premises, revolved around the theme ‘Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference’.
The school’s principal, Fayaz Ahmad Fayaz, inaugurated the event, which featured a series of activities aimed at raising awareness among students. Resource personnel from the Department of Community Medicine, including Dr Ayman Nisar and Dr Darakshan, delivered informative lectures on the health risks associated with tobacco use.
The event also included essay writing and poster competitions, which saw enthusiastic participation from students of the school and its affiliated institutions. A highlight of the program was a skit performed by the students, vividly portraying the hazards of tobacco use. The winners of the poster and essay competitions were felicitated for their creative efforts.
Dr Sameena Yousuf and Dr Rifat Jan, lecturers in the Department of Community Medicine at GMC Srinagar, organised and coordinated the event. Dr Salim Khan praised their efforts, saying it is important to organise such initiatives to fostering a tobacco-free generation.
Advocates highlight legal measures to combat tobacco use
The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Bandipora in collaboration with Tehsil Legal Services Committee Sumbal on Friday organised an awareness programme on Anti Tobacco Day at Government Higher Secondary School Hajin Bandipora.
The programme was organised under the chairmanship of Amit Sharma, Chairman of District Legal Services Authority/ Pr. District & Sessions Judge, Bandipora and guidance of Nusrat Ali Hakak, Secretary of District Legal Services Authority Bandipora and under the supervision of Bazila Bashir, Chairman of TLSC Sumbal.
On the occasion, Advocate Abid Hussain Malla, Advocate Irshad Ahmad Dar and Advocate Tasleema Jan Panel Lawyers of TLSC Sumbal delivered lectures on the topic. They said the aim of the day is to raise awareness of the harmful effects of tobacco use and second-hand smoke exposure.
They highlighted the theme of Anti Tobacco Day 2024 which is ‘Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference.’ They also discussed the relevant laws and legislations that help to curb the smoking menace and drug addiction and its management.
Moreover, the rally was flagged off from Government Higher Secondary School Hajin to Main Market Hajin to create awareness and motivation towards tobacco cessation among the masses. More than 100 students and faculty members of Government Higher Secondary School Hajin, staff members of TLSC Sumbal and PLVs participated in the event.
GDC Ajas: Faculty, students unite for tobacco-free lifestyle
Government Degree College Ajas on Friday observed ‘World No Tobacco Day’ with a series of enlightening and impactful events aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and promoting a healthier, tobacco-free lifestyle.
The event was attended by faculty, students, and staff members, all committed to reducing tobacco consumption.
On the occasion, the principal of the college Prof (Dr) Parveen Kouser recited a poem capturing the emotional and physical toll that tobacco takes on individuals and their loved ones. Her poem was both a call to action and a poignant reminder of the lives lost and affected by tobacco use.
Prof (Dr) Kouser in her speech spoke about various strategies and policies needed to reduce tobacco consumption. She highlighted the importance of educational institutions in leading the charge against tobacco use, advocating for stronger enforcement of tobacco control laws and greater public awareness campaigns. Her speech provided a comprehensive overview of the steps that can be taken at both individual and community levels to tackle the tobacco epidemic.
Earlier, the programme commenced with introductory remarks by Dr Aijaz, who emphasized the significance of ‘World No Tobacco Day’ and its role in highlighting the health risks associated with tobacco use. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Ashaq Hussain, the Convener of the Seminar and Debates Committee.
