India’s Commitment: Protecting Generations from Tobacco’s Grip

Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra reiterated India’s commitment to safeguarding current and future generations from the health, social, environmental, and economic harms associated with tobacco. The Union Health Ministry organized an event to observe ‘World No Tobacco Day 2024’ with the theme “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference,” highlighting the urgent need to shield youths from the detrimental influences of tobacco consumption. Chandra, addressing the event through a video message, emphasized the government’s proactive stance, implementing measures at various levels – local, national, regional, and global – to reduce tobacco consumption and exposure to tobacco smoke, fostering healthier communities. India’s enforcement of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control has shown noticeable results, evidenced by the tobacco surveillance and monitoring mechanisms in place. Badminton player PV Sindhu was designated as the brand ambassador for Tobacco Control, urging everyone to unite in the campaign against tobacco use and encouraging individuals to lead a tobacco-free life.