Shimla, Nov 4 (PTI) An inter-departmental meeting was held on Wednesday to discuss the implementation of the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign (TFYC) 4.0 across Himachal Pradesh, a statement issued here said.
The 60-day statewide campaign aims to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco, prevent tobacco use among young people and encourage existing users to quit. Himachal Pradesh was also recognised among the best-performing large States during the previous edition.
The meeting highlighted the growing influence of tobacco promotion through social media, digital platforms and advertisements, which can encourage experimentation and addiction among young people. The need for coordinated efforts to counter such influences was emphasised.
The campaign will focus on strengthening Tobacco-Free Educational Institution (ToFEI) compliance, promoting Tobacco-Free Villages, enforcing the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act and the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act and expanding awareness through educational institutions, social media and community outreach.
Around 18,000 educational institutions across the state will be covered.
All government offices and workplaces will be directed to maintain tobacco-free premises, display mandatory signage and install tobacco disposal boxes at building entrances. Officials and staff members will also take the QR code-based 'No Tobacco Pledge'.
Public awareness will be strengthened through anti-tobacco jingles on Swachhata Raths, community radio, FM stations and Doordarshan. Special enforcement drives will also be conducted around educational institutions to prevent the sale of tobacco products within the prohibited 100-yard zone.
The meeting further decided to integrate TFYC 4.0 activities with the ongoing Anti-Chitta Abhiyan to strengthen the state's efforts against substance abuse and addiction.
All departments, district administrations, educational institutions, local bodies and enforcement agencies were urged to work in close coordination to protect the younger generation from tobacco and nicotine addiction.
Health Secretary Ashish Singhmar, Mission Director NHM Pradeep Thakur, Director Health Services Gopal Beri, Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police from districts, senior officers and representatives of various departments were present in the meeting.
