Port Blair, May 31: In commemoration of World No Tobacco Day, a special event was organized today at Maharashtra Mandal, Port Blair, jointly by Nehru Yuva Kendra, Port Blair, and the State Health Society’s National Tobacco Control Program. The event aimed to educate and engage youth in discussions about the causes and prevention of tobacco use. Approximately 50 enthusiastic youth participated in the program.
Dr. Milind Patil, a renowned Neurosurgeon from the Indian Air Force, graced the occasion as the chief guest. Dr. Patil delivered an enlightening speech on the detrimental effects of tobacco and emphasized the importance of prevention. The esteemed presence of Mrs. Margreat Isaac, Lecturer at ANCOL, Mr. Venkatesh Kumar Singh, Lecturer, and Dr. Sunita Patil added to the event’s significance.
The event also welcomed Mr. Rathindranath Mallick, an official from the State Health Society, as well as a psychologist and counselor from the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP). They conducted engaging sessions highlighting the ill effects of tobacco consumption and providing valuable insights into prevention measures.
Mr. Gopal Ch Biswas of Nehru Yuva Kendra, Port Blair, extended a warm welcome to the chief guest and other distinguished guests, enlightening the attending youth about the importance of the event.
Addressing the alarming statistics surrounding tobacco use, it is crucial to acknowledge that tobacco consumption remains the leading cause of premature deaths, affecting approximately 27% of the young generation in India. Shockingly, every year, 1.3 million lives are lost due to tobacco-related diseases in the country.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mr. KV Sreerag, a Consultant from the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP), expressing gratitude to all participants and attendees for their valuable contributions to the event’s success.
