A comprehensive training program focused on tobacco prohibition was organized in Pashchimi Singhbhum district on Wednesday. The initiative, supervised by District Civil Surgeon Dr. Sushanto Kumar Majhi and chaired by Block Development Officer Dhananjay Pathak of Khuntpani, aimed to eradicate tobacco use in rural areas. Attendees included Mukhiyas, Jal Sahiyas, drinking water department personnel, representatives from NGOs, and panchayat members.
The primary goal of the program was to establish tobacco and drug-free environments within villages and encourage residents to embrace healthier lifestyles. Dhananjay Pathak, the Block Development Officer, stressed the importance of abstaining from tobacco and drugs to promote well-being. Siddharth Honhaga, the Block Pramukh, voiced his concern over the rise in tobacco use among young people, acknowledging it as a social ill, and urged collective effort towards a drug-free society.
Dr. Bharti Minj, Additional Chief Medical Officer, provided insights into the detrimental health consequences associated with tobacco consumption. She detailed that tobacco use contributes to significant health issues, including hair loss, cataracts, dental problems, lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases, ulcers, gangrene, and respiratory ailments, as well as causing financial and social harm.
Dr. Alok Ranjan, the District Tuberculosis Officer, pointed out the widespread impact of tobacco use, affecting individuals, families, and the broader community. Social worker Anoop Bage highlighted tobacco as a primary contributor to serious non-communicable diseases and suggested that adherence to the COTPA Act of 2003 and 2021 could mitigate the negative consequences. District Counselor Mukti Birua also presented information about the Tobacco Cessation Center available at the Sadar Hospital.
The participants concluded the training by collectively taking a pledge to abstain from tobacco use. The event was attended by a diverse group of officials, including Block Pramukh, District Council members, and representatives from the drinking water department, volunteer organizations, the Block Office, and the District NCD Department.