On 27 May 2025, the Police Department of Uttar Pradesh, in collaboration with the State Tobacco Control Cell (STCC) and Uttar Pradesh Voluntary Health Association (UPVHA), organized a State-Level Sensitization Workshop at Police Headquarters, Lucknow, ahead of World No Tobacco Day. The event was chaired by Mrs. Tilottama Varma, Director General of Police (Training), and saw participation from over 1000 attendees, including senior police officers, health officials, and technical experts.
Mrs. Varma emphasized that tobacco causes over 1.3 million deaths annually in India, highlighting its growing use among children and vulnerable populations. She called for sustained efforts beyond the observance of World No Tobacco Day, urging police involvement in enforcement and awareness.
Chief Guest Dr. Ratan Pal Singh Suman praised NTCP’s progress and urged strict enforcement of 100-yard tobacco-free zones around educational institutions. Dr. Mukesh Matenhelia, State Nodal Officer, NTCP, warned about the increasing use of flavored tobacco products among youth and stressed on enforcing COTPA 2003 and PECA. Dr. Amit Yadav from Vital Strategies provided a technical presentation on the evolution of tobacco control laws and the need for behavioral change.
A letter was also issued by the Police Department to all districts, emphasizing coordinated enforcement with the Health Department. The workshop concluded with a strong commitment to interdepartmental collaboration and action toward a tobacco-free Uttar Pradesh.
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