Youth Rally organised to commemorate ‘World No Tobacco Day’ at Ganderbal

GANDERBAL : On the occasion of ‘World No Tobacco Day,’ a youth rally was on Friday organised in Ganderbal to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and to promote a tobacco-free society under NCD Programme Division.
The event was a collaborative effort led by the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Ganderbal, in partnership with the Department of School Education, District Administration and Police Department.
The rally commenced from the Mini Secretariat Ganderbal and culminated at the SSP Office Ganderbal.
The event was flagged-off by SP Headquarters Ganderbal, Gh Hassan, who emphasized the critical importance of youth participation in health awareness campaigns and the fight against tobacco use.
More-than 700 enthusiastic students from various schools and Health Professionals, Police Personnel participated in the rally, carrying banners and placards with messages highlighting the harmful effects of tobacco.
The rally aimed to educate the young generation about the health risks associated with tobacco consumption and to encourage them to adopt a healthy, tobacco-free lifestyle.
Addressing the participants, the Chief Medical Officer highlighted the theme of this year’s World No Tobacco Day, which focuses on protecting youth from industry manipulation and preventing them from using tobacco and nicotine products. She stressed the role of education and community engagement in achieving a tobacco-free future.
Representatives from the Department of School Education and the Police Department also spoke on the occasion, underscoring their commitment to supporting such initiatives that foster a healthier environment for the community.
They lauded the students for their active participation and urged them to continue spreading awareness about the ill effects of tobacco use among their peers and families.
The rally received widespread appreciation from the local community, who acknowledged the efforts of the organisers and participants in promoting public health. The event concluded with a pledge by all attendees to abstain from tobacco and to work towards creating a healthier, smoke-free society.