In a significant move to protect the youth from tobacco addiction, Ahmedabad has declared 339 schools as tobacco-free. This initiative is part of a larger campaign aimed at creating awareness about the dangers of tobacco use among students and young people. The campaign was launched under the guidance of district health officials, focusing on preventing tobacco use from an early age.
On May 31, World No Tobacco Day will be celebrated across Gujarat, including Ahmedabad district. Various awareness activities such as group discussions, workshops, camps, and rallies have been organized to promote a tobacco-free lifestyle.
The district development officer, along with the chief health officer, has been instrumental in this campaign. The aim is to educate young people and children about the harmful effects of tobacco and to make schools a safe environment free from tobacco use. To achieve this, educational institutions are encouraged to actively participate in this initiative.
The campaign also promotes strict enforcement of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) and encourages community involvement. Local authorities, NGOs, and youth groups are working together to protect children from tobacco addiction. The focus is on raising awareness from a young age to prevent tobacco use and its related health risks.
According to the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS), around 14.6% of students aged between 13 and 15 in India have used some form of tobacco. Early initiation of tobacco use increases the chances of addiction and long-term health problems. The Ahmedabad campaign aims to address this serious issue through community-based efforts and active measures.
Dr. Chintan Desai, the district disease control officer, emphasized the importance of early awareness and community participation. He stated, ‘Our goal is to protect our children from a life filled with addiction and diseases caused by tobacco.’ This proactive approach is crucial to ensuring a healthier future for the youth in Ahmedabad.
As part of this initiative, schools are being encouraged to implement awareness programs. The education department is supporting the project to declare educational institutions completely tobacco-free. This includes ongoing monitoring by a designated task force to enforce regulations and take permanent measures against tobacco use.
The campaign is a significant step towards youth tobacco control. The declaration of 339 schools as tobacco-free is a commendable achievement, and efforts are underway to include more schools in this initiative. By working together, Ahmedabad aims to create a generation that is free from the harmful effects of tobacco.
This initiative is not just about banning tobacco; it is about fostering a healthy environment for young minds to flourish. The collaboration between various stakeholders, including schools, health officials, and the community, is essential for the success of this campaign. With continued efforts, Ahmedabad hopes to significantly reduce tobacco use and promote a healthier lifestyle among its youth.
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