Jaipur. The health department in Jaipur has officially launched a comprehensive 60-day initiative aimed at protecting the younger generation from the severe health hazards associated with tobacco consumption. Known as the Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 4.0, this special drive seeks to foster a healthier environment by curbing the use of tobacco products across the district. Officials are coordinating efforts at the district, block, and village levels to ensure the campaign reaches every corner of the region.
Dr. Manish Mittal, the Chief Medical and Health Officer for Jaipur II, emphasized that the primary objective is to keep students and young adults away from harmful substances while raising awareness about the life-threatening diseases linked to tobacco use. To achieve this, medical institutions and block-level authorities have been instructed to follow a structured action plan that prioritizes the creation of tobacco-free educational campuses and communities.
The campaign is built upon six strategic pillars designed to maximize impact. These include widespread public awareness programs, strict adherence to guidelines for tobacco-free educational institutions, and the promotion of the tobacco-free village concept. Furthermore, the initiative focuses on the rigorous enforcement of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act of 2003 and the Electronic Cigarettes Prohibition Act of 2019, alongside active engagement with colleges and universities through social media outreach.
Dr. Surendra Goyal, Deputy Chief Medical and Health Officer, noted that the drive will involve direct interactions with students in schools and colleges to educate them on the long-term consequences of addiction. The campaign encourages youth to adopt healthier lifestyles and act as ambassadors for change within their families and social circles. Collaborative efforts with various departments will also ensure that legal provisions regarding tobacco control in public spaces are strictly upheld.
To maintain transparency and track progress, all activities conducted under this campaign will be reported daily on the National Tobacco Control Programme portal managed by the central government. Regular monitoring at both the district and block levels will be conducted to ensure that all set targets are met within the two-month timeframe, ultimately aiming for a significant reduction in tobacco prevalence across the district.