Agartala, May 31: Students of the National Service Scheme (NSS) unit of Women’s College took to the streets of Agartala on Saturday to spread awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use. The awareness drive was held in observance of World No Tobacco Day, aimed at urging the public to quit tobacco and adopt healthier lifestyles.
The students organized the campaign in front of Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan, drawing attention from passersby as they held placards and interacted with the public. Their key message was simple but powerful — say no to tobacco, and yes to life.
Speaking during the campaign, one of the participating students said, “We are organising this awareness drive to highlight the dangers of tobacco use. As per World Health Organization (WHO) data, lakhs of people die every year due to tobacco-related diseases. It causes cancer, heart problems, and other serious health issues. The only way to tackle this problem is through widespread public awareness.”
The students emphasized that tobacco addiction is not just a personal health issue but a public health crisis that affects millions globally. They encouraged people to quit tobacco immediately and avoid its use throughout the year, not just on awareness days.
The drive drew positive responses from the public, with many expressing support for the students’ efforts. The campaign highlighted the proactive role of educational institutions and youth in health advocacy.
The initiative was part of a broader effort to mark World No Tobacco Day, observed globally on May 31 to raise awareness about the health risks of tobacco and advocate for effective policies to reduce consumption.
With increasing youth engagement in such campaigns, the message against tobacco is reaching wider audiences, encouraging healthier and more informed choices.