31st May 2022 11:05:PM Editorials
Eastern Sentinel Arunachal News

The World No Tobacco Day is observed on May 31 every year to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use, more so recently emphasis has been on school going children.

In the wake of growing tobacco consumption among school going children, district administrations have banned shops within 100 meters radius of educational institutions illicitly selling tobacco products. These measures were taken a few years back but little impact is seen on the ground. While we're on this topic, another important issue that needs to be addressed is keeping public spaces smoke-free. 

 

Although smoking in public places has been banned in India but this has had little impact. By merely banning smoking in public places or printing alarming pictures on cigarette packs, does little for smokers to kick the habit. An international research suggests that ban on smoking in public has not reduced the number of smokers globally.

While smokers are mostly aware of the consequences of their action, it the passive smoke which is an area of great concern and must be addressed. Currently nearly 6 million deaths due to smoking is reported each year worldwide, including 600,000 which is as the result of non-smokers being exposed to second-hand smoke.  This is a huge health concern as most of the victims are unaware of the ill effects of passive smoking.

 

Government alone cannot fight the tobacco epidemic; it needs the support of civil society for bringing noticeable changes. Every stakeholder has a responsibility to ensure that the environment is smoke-free. As adolescence is the most vulnerable period for falling into this vice—especially due to peer pressure, parents and elders must remain vigil and counsel their wards to steer clear of such addiction.

The entire issue needs to be dealt with scientifically. Right from school days, the ill-effects of smoking needs to be inculcated among children. As tobacco use is growing among children, a strong social movement is needed to address this before more fall into its grip.


Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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