Jaipur, May 19: Rajasthan has achieved a significant global milestone in tobacco control. The state’s Health Department has been awarded a prestigious international honor under the World Health Organization’s (WHO) World No Tobacco Day Award 2026 for its exemplary work in implementing tobacco control initiatives across the state.
This award recognizes Rajasthan’s remarkable achievements in tobacco control during the 2025-26 period in the Southeast Asia region, as acknowledged by the WHO.
Expressing his delight over this recognition, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma stated that this honor reflects the state government’s unwavering commitment to public health, effective policy implementation, and the vision of a ‘Tobacco-Free Rajasthan.’
He emphasized that the government is continuously taking strong and results-oriented measures to protect citizens, especially the youth, from the harmful effects of tobacco use.
The Chief Minister noted that this recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of the Health Department, district administration, healthcare workers, and various social organizations operating throughout the state.
Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar remarked that Rajasthan has established itself as a model for tobacco control across the country. He highlighted the extensive expansion of tobacco cessation treatment and counseling services, benefiting millions.
He further stated that the government will continue to strengthen the tobacco control movement through comprehensive public awareness campaigns and stringent enforcement measures in the coming years.
Currently, over 500 tobacco cessation treatment and counseling centers are operational across Rajasthan, with services extending to the block level. These centers are geographically tagged and integrated with a digital platform, making it easier for citizens to identify and access the nearest facility.
The state has also conducted effective enforcement campaigns under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003, and the Electronic Cigarette Prohibition Act, 2019.
Additionally, extensive awareness campaigns have been launched through social media platforms, disseminating over 60,000 messages, updates, and public relations activities related to tobacco prohibition.
The government has ensured compliance with ‘Tobacco-Free School’ guidelines in more than 83,000 schools across the state.
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