In an effort to combat tobacco use in rural areas, a one-day training program was held in Pashchimi Singhbhum district on Wednesday. The program was conducted under the guidance of Dr. Sushanto Kumar Majhi, the District Civil Surgeon, and presided over by Dhananjay Pathak, the Block Development Officer of Khuntpani. Key participants included Mukhiyas, Jal Sahiyas, staff from the drinking water department, representatives from voluntary organizations, and panchayat members.
The primary objective of the training was to educate participants on the dangers of tobacco and drug use, with the goal of fostering healthy lifestyles within villages. Block Development Officer Dhananjay Pathak emphasized that avoiding tobacco and drugs is crucial for maintaining good health. Block Pramukh Siddharth Honhaga expressed concern about the growing trend of tobacco consumption among the youth and called for collaborative action to create a society free of substance abuse.
Dr. Bharti Minj, the Additional Chief Medical Officer, presented comprehensive details about the negative health impacts of tobacco, including hair loss, cataracts, dental problems, lung cancer, heart disease, ulcers, gangrene, and respiratory ailments. She also noted the financial and social consequences.
Dr. Alok Ranjan, the District Tuberculosis Officer, underscored the widespread effects of tobacco use on individuals, families, and the wider community. Social worker Anoop Bage highlighted that tobacco is a significant cause of serious non-communicable diseases and pointed out that following the provisions of the COTPA Act 2003 and 2021 can help mitigate the adverse effects. District Counselor Mukti Birua offered information about the Tobacco Cessation Center located at the Sadar Hospital.
The program concluded with a collective commitment from all participants to abstain from using tobacco. The event was attended by Block Pramukh, District Council members, employees of the drinking water department, representatives from voluntary organizations, and personnel from the Block Office and the District NCD Department.