By Hamu Madzedze (Zimbabwean journalist 365HealthDiaries)
The Government of India has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding current and future generations from the major health,social,environmental and economic harm associated with tobacco.
In his video speech to mark the World No Tobacco Day 2024 the Union's Health Secretary Shri Apurva Chandra said this year's theme "Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference" underscores the urgent need to protect youths from the detrimental effects of tobacco consumption.
"Tobacco use does not only have a negative impact on tobacco smokers but stretches to non-smokers who include children and pregnant women"he said.
Mr Chandra said his country will continue to take decisive action and enact measures at local, nation,regional and global levels to reduce the use of tobacco and build a healthy nation.
"The World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control has yielded noticeable results ,citing tangible outcomes evidenced by the tobacco surveillance and monitoring mechanisms in place"said Chandra.
In a move to motivate young children and youths to desist from using all forms of tobacco the Indian government have engaged Ms PV Sindhu the Indiana Badminton Maestro as the brand ambassador for Tobacco Control .
The Tobacco brand ambassador called upon everyone to unite in the fight against tobacco use and encouraging individuals to lead a tobacco-free life and embrace healthier choices today for a better tomorrow.
Meanwhile Director General of Health Services Professor Dr Atul Goel has emphasised the urgent need for innovative strategies to educate youth on the harmful effects of tobacco use.
WHO Representative to India DR Roderico Ofrin has applauded India for its pioneering role in regulating tobacco depiction Over- the top(OTT) platforms and its policy on the prohibition of e-cigarettes.
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