A series of awareness programmes were held today under the aegis of District Health Society Doda to observe World No Tobacco Day.The programme was organized on the theme, "We need food, not tobacco" as a part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration.Two major events were held at ANMT School Doda, SDH Bhaderwah, besides in other medical blocks of the District.
At Bhaderwah, the programme was chaired by CMO, Dr Abdul Hamid Zargar, in presence of BMO. The CMO highlighted the importance of the day and said that tobacco has been clinically proven as the main cause of cancer which affects millions across the world. He further said tobacco is considered as one of the major threats to public health in the 21st century.
The CMO Doda also called for creating mass awareness about the hazards of smoking and its other forms. He stressed upon the voluntary organizations to organize programmes and help in sensitizing the society about the effects of smoking on public health.
The participants pledged to spread the message in the society in a big way and save the human lives from the dreaded diseases like cancer, tuberculosis caused due to smoking. At ANMT School Doda, the programme was chaired by Principal Anusuya Bhan.
The speakers said that the students and youth are the best ambassadors to circulate the message and create awareness to develop drug and tobacco free society.Awareness rallies were also organized by the health department, with the active participation of school students.Similar awareness programmes, rallies and other events were held in Ghat, Assar, Thathri, Gandoh and other blocks to mark the celebration of the day.