Lucknow, February 19: The Uttar Pradesh administration has adopted a stringent approach towards tobacco control. Under the leadership of Chief Secretary S.P. Goyal, a meeting of the state-level coordination committee for the National Tobacco Control Program was held, where several crucial directives were issued for the effective implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act.
During the meeting, the Chief Secretary emphasized the need for special awareness campaigns against tobacco in all universities and educational institutions across the state. He stated that it is essential to educate children and youth about the harmful effects of tobacco from an early age. Therefore, tobacco-related topics should be included in the curriculum or co-curricular activities in primary schools.
The Chief Secretary also instructed that all government offices be declared ‘tobacco-free.’ He stressed the importance of adhering to guidelines for recognizing educational institutions as “tobacco-free educational institutions” during the accreditation process. Expressing concern over the rising trend of tobacco use among youth, he directed the launch of extensive campaigns to eliminate the glamor associated with tobacco products.
Additionally, it was mandated that all doctors and healthcare workers provide brief advice against tobacco use at every available opportunity. Special training programs will be organized to enhance the capacity of healthcare workers. There was also a strong emphasis on timely establishment of tobacco cessation centers in medical and dental colleges, in accordance with the guidelines set by the Government of India.
Furthermore, discussions were held regarding the effective implementation of the tobacco vendor licensing system and ensuring a minimum distance of 500 meters between two tobacco vendors. The Chief Secretary reiterated that strict adherence to tobacco control laws will lead the state towards a healthier and more aware society.
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