On May 31, 2025, the world will celebrate World No Tobacco Day. In Ahmedabad, 339 schools have been declared tobacco-free. This initiative aims to keep students and youth away from addiction. Various awareness activities are planned throughout Gujarat for this special day.
In Ahmedabad district, a major effort is underway to help students and young people avoid addiction. Activities such as group discussions, workshops, camps, and rallies have been organised to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco. These events are guided by the district development officer and the chief district health officer.
An awareness campaign started on September 24, focusing on educating the youth and children about the harmful effects of tobacco. The campaign includes awareness programmes in schools, strict enforcement of the COTPA Act, and promoting community participation. Educational institutions are encouraged to become 100% tobacco-free, with support from the education department. Local authorities, NGOs, and youth groups are working together to protect children from tobacco addiction.
The goal of this initiative is to prevent tobacco use from the start and to reduce long-term health risks. A designated task force will monitor regulations and implement sustainable measures. This campaign is a crucial step for young tobacco control efforts.
As of now, Ahmedabad rural and 339 schools have been declared tobacco-free, with ongoing efforts to extend this to more schools. Dr. Chintan Desai, the district epidemiology officer, stated, “Tobacco use often begins in adolescence. Through early awareness, education, and community involvement, we aim to protect our children from addiction and a life filled with diseases.”
According to the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS), about 14.6% of students aged 13 to 15 in India have used some form of tobacco. Starting tobacco use at a young age increases the chances of addiction and is linked to long-term health problems. To combat this trend, Ahmedabad rural is committed to taking active steps and community-based actions to stop this deadly habit.
The awareness campaign includes various strategies, such as educational sessions in schools, strict enforcement of laws, and creating community partnerships. The focus is on empowering the youth with knowledge about the risks of tobacco use, which can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory diseases, cancer, and heart diseases.
The campaign also aims to educate families about the dangers of tobacco use. Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about the risks associated with tobacco and to support them in making healthy choices. Community leaders and health workers are actively involved in these discussions, ensuring that the message reaches every household.
In addition, the campaign promotes alternatives to tobacco use, such as sports and recreational activities. Engaging youth in positive activities helps to divert their attention from tobacco and encourages healthier lifestyles.
Local government officials are optimistic about the results of this campaign. They believe that with continued efforts, they can significantly reduce tobacco use among the youth in Ahmedabad. The initiative is not just about declaring schools tobacco-free, but also about creating a supportive environment where young people can thrive without the influence of harmful substances.
As part of this ongoing effort, the health department will conduct regular assessments to track the progress of the campaign. Feedback from students, parents, and teachers will be crucial in shaping future strategies.
The success of this campaign could serve as a model for other regions in Gujarat and India. By raising awareness and taking collective action, communities can work towards a healthier future for their youth. The commitment shown by Ahmedabad district to combat tobacco use is commendable and sets a positive example for others to follow.
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