UPVHA

The lush green lawns of Seth M.R. Jaipuria School, Fatehpur came alive on Wednesday morning as students, teachers, and guests joined hands to plant 300 saplings in a spirited drive to promote environmental conservation.

The event, organised by the Uttar Pradesh Voluntary Health Association (UPVHA) led by Mr. Vivek Awasthi, Executive Director of UPVHA, and the Deputy Director of Seth M.R. Jaipuria School, Fatehpur. The school principal, faculty, administrative staff, and a large number of students participated with enthusiasm, turning the day into a celebration of nature.

The drive began with an awareness session, where the chief guests spoke about the urgent need for environmental protection and the role young people can play in shaping a greener future. “Planting a tree is planting hope for generations to come,” Mr. Awasthi told the audience, urging everyone to care for the saplings as they would for their own families.

Adding a creative touch to the occasion, a Poster Making Competition on the theme “Save Nature, Save Future” drew impressive entries from students. Bright colours and bold slogans captured the urgency of climate action. Three winning groups, each comprising three students, were awarded certificates and prizes for their outstanding work.

The highlight of the day was the plantation ceremony, where each sapling was planted by an individual student, teacher, and guests. To build a personal connection, every participant affixed their name to their plant, symbolising commitment to nurturing it in the years ahead.

By the end of the morning, the school grounds were dotted with new life – rows of fresh saplings promising shade, beauty, and cleaner air for future generations. The event was not just about planting trees, but about sowing seeds of awareness and responsibility among young minds.

With this initiative, UPVHA and Seth M.R. Jaipuria School have set an example of how NGOs and educational institutions can come together to turn environmental ideals into tangible action.

On 29 May 2025, the State Tobacco Control Cell (STCC) and Uttar Pradesh Voluntary Health Association (UPVHA) organized a State-Level Workshop in Lucknow to mark World No Tobacco Day. The event focused on raising awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco and strengthening the enforcement of tobacco control laws in Uttar Pradesh.

Dr. Kavita Arya, Director Health, Government of Uttar Pradesh, presided over the event and emphasized the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in building a tobacco-free society. Dr. Mukesh Matenhelia, State Nodal Officer (NTCP), opened the workshop by outlining the purpose of the day and the urgent need for mass awareness.

Key speakers including Dr. Ramashankar Yadav, Mr. M.P. Singh (Police), and Dr. Ankit Kumar highlighted the link between tobacco use and serious illnesses such as TB and cancer, while stressing the need for behavioural change and strict law enforcement. Dr. Arvind Srivastava discussed the mental health implications of tobacco use among youth, calling for school-based programs. Dr. Amit Yadav gave a detailed overview of COTPA 2003, urging effective implementation of its key sections.

Representatives from the FSDA, Education Department, and various NGOs joined the event, reinforcing the call for inter-departmental collaboration. The workshop concluded with a pledge by all participants to promote tobacco control, refrain from its use, and support others in quitting.

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.

UPVHA was recognized for its dedicated efforts toward conserving environment and wetlands at the Vihang Utsav 2024, organized at CG Wetland, Lucknow, by the Forest Department Lucknow, Lucknow Development Authority and Lucknow Smart City.

The event brought together stakeholders and experts committed to environmental conservation, with a focus on preserving and restoring wetlands. It was graced by the presence of Chief Guest Shri P. Guruprasad, Secretary, Housing and Urban Planning Department, and Special Guest Dr. Roshan Jacob, Commissioner, Lucknow.

In his speech UPVHA Executive Director, Mr. Vivek Awasthi, reaffirmed the commitment of UPVHA to the conservation and restoration of wetlands, emphasizing their vital role in sustaining biodiversity, regulating water resources, and mitigating climate change impacts.

In collaboration with the Forest Department UPVHA actively engages local communities, conducts awareness campaigns, and implements nature-based solutions to protect these fragile ecosystems.

Our initiatives focus on conserving biodiversity, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring wetlands continue to serve as essential resources for both people and wildlife. Through such collaborative efforts, UPVHA aims to build a future where wetlands thrive as vibrant ecosystems and pillars of environmental sustainability.

The Vihangh Utsav 2024 was a testament to collective action and the power of partnerships in safeguarding our environment for future generations.

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The State Level Seminar on the Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 2.0 was held on the 10th of October 2024 at the Meeting Hall of K D Singh Babu Stadium, Lucknow. The event, organized under the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) of Uttar Pradesh, brought together key stakeholders, health officials, and experts to discuss the intensive strategies and objectives of the newly launched phase of the Tobacco Free Youth Campaign.

The seminar began with registration, managed by the UPVHA Team, followed by a formal welcome where Mr. Vivek Awasthi, Executive Director of UPVHA, addressed the audience. He introduced the purpose and scope of Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 2.0, emphasizing the need to engage the youth in the fight against tobacco consumption and its harmful effects on public health.

Dignitaries and Special Guests

The event was graced by several distinguished personalities, including:

• Mr. Brajesh Pathak, Honorable Deputy Chief Minister and Cabinet Minister, Medical Health and Family Welfare and Medical Education, Uttar Pradesh
• Dr. Brijesh Rathor, Director General Medical and Health Services, Uttar Pradesh
• Dr. Narendra Agrawal, Director General Family Welfare
• Dr. B P Singh Kalyani, Director Health

These experts played a pivotal role in discussing the importance of tobacco control and provided insights into the challenges faced in curbing tobacco consumption among youth in Uttar Pradesh.

Launch of the Intensive Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 2.0

The highlight of the seminar was the official launch of the Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 2.0 by Shri Brajesh Pathak, Honorable Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. Along with this, two significant resources were unveiled:

• Tobacco Free Village Manual
• Health Workers Guide

These documents were released by Shri Pathak ji and other dignitaries present, aimed at guiding local communities and healthcare workers in fostering a tobacco-free environment across villages and urban areas.

Mr. Brajesh Pathak, Honorable Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, delivered an impactful speech, addressing the grave issue of tobacco consumption. He stated:

“Tobacco is a curse on our society. Despite numerous rules and widespread awareness, we have not yet been able to eradicate it. Tobacco is a deadly addiction. People start using it under the influence of others and soon become dependent on it. Over time, their bodies become vulnerable to various diseases, such as cancer. I urge the youth to stay away from this harmful substance. Work hard, make your parents, your state, and the nation proud.

“We must implement tobacco control guidelines more effectively. Let’s create tobacco-free villages, tobacco-free neighbourhoods, and even tobacco-free cities. In closing, I extend my congratulations to everyone for the success of this important event.”

Then further, the event transitioned into an outdoor session where the focus shifted to youth engagement and anti-tobacco pledge.

Mr. Satish Tripathi, State Consultant for NTCP UP, welcomed the Chief Guest and dignitaries to the outdoor session. The attendees took a No Tobacco Pledge, reaffirming their commitment to maintaining a tobacco-free lifestyle and promoting the message to their communities.

A special segment of the event recognized 11 National Achievers in Sports as Anti-Tobacco Ambassadors. Shri Brajesh Pathak felicitated these athletes, honoring their commitment to excellence and promoting healthy, tobacco-free lifestyles.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Mukesh Matanhelia, thanking all participants and dignitaries for their support and presence at this significant event.

The seminar proved to be a crucial step toward amplifying the Tobacco Free Youth Campaign, raising awareness, and engaging key stakeholders in making Uttar Pradesh a tobacco-free state. The launch of the campaign, combined with the resources provided, set the foundation for a sustainable movement targeting the younger generation to lead a healthier, tobacco-free life.

“Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference”

World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) is an annual event organized by the World Health Organization to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and advocate for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption. The theme for WNTD 2024, “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference,” underscores the necessity to shield young people from the aggressive marketing tactics of the tobacco industry. Tobacco use remains a major public health challenge, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, where a significant portion of the population, including youth, is at risk. The Uttar Pradesh Voluntary Health Association (UPVHA), in collaboration with the STCC, UP and University of Lucknow, organized a workshop aimed at educating and empowering students to combat tobacco use and advocate for a tobacco-free future.

The workshop began with an introduction session where the theme “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference” was emphasized. The lighting of the lamp ceremony set a solemn and respectful tone for the day’s proceedings. During the event, we honoured our distinguished guests by presenting them with mementos and bouquets as a warm welcome. A total of 200 students and faculty members and staff from the department attended the event.

Chief Guest Dr. Surya Kant, Head of Department, Respiratory Medicine, KGMU opened the workshop session by provided a comprehensive overview of the global and national impact of tobacco use. Globally, tobacco use results in a staggering 8 million deaths annually, with India bearing a significant portion of this burden. In India alone, 1.35 million people succumb each year to tobacco-related illnesses. The prevalence of tobacco use in the country is alarmingly high, with approximately 270 million users, including 22 million adolescents aged 13 to 15 years. The impact of tobacco extends beyond direct users; second-hand smoke affects 77 million people in public places and nearly 10 million at home. Smokeless tobacco, another major concern, is responsible for over 200,000 deaths in India annually. The health repercussions of tobacco are extensive, being linked to 25 types of diseases and 40 types of cancers, including oral, throat, lung, prostate, stomach, and brain tumours. This highlights the urgent need for robust tobacco control measures to mitigate the extensive health and social impacts of tobacco use.

Guest of Honor Dr. Rajneesh Srivastava, Pulmonologist, Max Super speciality Hospital, Lucknow highlighted that people who consume tobacco should be provided social and psychological treatment. Children and youth will have to be motivated to stay away from tobacco consumption. He said that heart rate will improve just 20 minutes after quitting smoking. The cough and shortness of breath will subside within one to nine months. Within five to 15 years your risk of stroke drops to that of a non-smoker. The mortality rate from lung cancer within 10 years is about half that of a smoker. Within 15 years, the risk of heart disease is the same as that of a non-smoker.

Distribution of Millets:  Millets were distributed as a gesture to support ground workers and staff members while promoting nutritional awareness with the message “We need Food, not Tobacco.” This initiative also aimed to raise awareness about the harmful effects of other tobacco products and to promote the government’s health initiatives.

Prize Distribution: An online poster-making competition was conducted with the theme “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference.” The winners were recognized for their creative efforts and commitment to advocating for tobacco control, serving as an inspiration for more students to engage in future initiatives. In the competition, Jainab secured the first prize, Kritika was awarded the second prize, and Mariyam earned the third prize in the competition.

Pledge for No Tobacco Use: Participants took a collective pledge to abstain from tobacco, reinforcing their commitment to a tobacco-free lifestyle.

Signature Campaign: The advocacy initiative saw enthusiastic participation, with many students and faculty members adding their signatures in support of stronger tobacco control measures.

Poster Release:  A poster was unveiled with the message “Tobacco Users Have Extra Burden of Medical Expenses,” highlighting the financial strain that tobacco use places on individuals and families. This visual aid served to drive home the point that tobacco consumption is not only a health hazard but also an economic burden.

Balloon Release Ceremony: The event concluded with a symbolic release of balloons at Gate No. 3, representing the community’s commitment to letting go of harmful tobacco habits. The World No Tobacco Day workshop on “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference” was a resounding success. It effectively raised awareness, empowered students, and mobilized the community to take concrete steps towards a tobacco-free future. U P Voluntary Health Association in collaboration with STCC, UP and University of Lucknow, demonstrated a strong commitment to public health and set a positive example for other institutions to follow.

State-Level Workshop on ‘Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference’

On May 30, 2024, a state-level workshop was held to commemorate World No Tobacco Day, focusing on the critical theme of ‘Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference.’ The event was organized collaboratively by the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP), Uttar Pradesh, and the UP Voluntary Health Association (UPVHA), along with King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Department of Respiratory Medicine, Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center, Tobacco Cessation Clinic, and Drug Resistant TB Care International Center. The workshop took place at the auditorium of the Department of Respiratory Medicine, KGMU.

The workshop featured a panel of distinguished speakers and experts in the field of tobacco control:

• Dr. Mukesh Matanhelia: State Nodal Officer, NTCP, Uttar Pradesh
• Dr. Surya Kant: Head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine, KGMU
• Mr. Satish Tripathi: State Consultant, NTCP
• Dr. Ankit Kumar: Assistant Professor, Department of Respiratory Medicine, KGMU
• Mr. Vivek Awasthi: Executive Director, UPVHA

Dr. Matanhelia opened the workshop by discussing the dangerous tactics employed by the tobacco industry to target youth and children. He emphasized the difficulties associated with quitting tobacco but assured that it is achievable through persistent efforts.

Dr. Surya Kant provided a comprehensive overview of the global and national impact of tobacco use:

• Globally, tobacco use results in 8 million deaths annually.
• In India, 1.35 million people die each year due to tobacco-related illnesses.
• Approximately 270 million people in India use tobacco, including 22 million adolescents aged 13 to 15 years.
• Second-hand smoke affects 77 million people in public places and nearly 10 million at home.
• Smokeless tobacco causes over 200,000 deaths in India annually.
• Tobacco use is linked to 25 types of diseases and 40 types of cancers, including oral, throat, lung, prostate, stomach, and brain tumours.

Dr. Kant also highlighted efforts by the Indian government, including correspondence with the Prime Minister and Health Minister since 2018, to control the production, storage, and sale of tobacco.

Mr. Satish Tripathi elaborated on the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) of 2003 and its regulations, stressing the need for strict enforcement to protect public health.

Mr. Vivek Awasthi called for heightened vigilance against the aggressive strategies of the tobacco industry and advocated for comprehensive efforts to eliminate tobacco use. He also mentioned that World No Tobacco Day was being celebrated across all districts of Uttar Pradesh with activities aimed at raising awareness and promoting tobacco cessation.

The workshop served as a vital platform for uniting health experts, policymakers, and community leaders in the fight against tobacco use. It underscored the importance of protecting children from the exploitative tactics of the tobacco industry and reaffirmed the commitment to a tobacco-free future for Uttar Pradesh. The event concluded with a call for continuous efforts and cooperation among all stakeholders to achieve significant progress in tobacco control and ensure public health safety.

The success of this workshop highlighted the collective resolve to combat tobacco use and protect future generations from its harmful effects.

The celebration of World Hypertension Day in Paltan Slum was a comprehensive initiative designed to raise awareness about hypertension, its risk factors, prevention, and management. The program featured health education sessions, where HCL Tech volunteers provided free blood pressure checks to participants, allowing for early detection and promoting the importance of regular monitoring. These sessions offered valuable guidance on maintaining healthy blood pressure levels through practical advice on diet, exercise, and stress management. By providing accessible screenings and critical information, the program aimed to empower the community with the knowledge and tools needed to manage and prevent hypertension effectively. Following the educational activities, volunteers distributed Tulsi plants to the attendees as a symbolic gesture of health and well-being, reinforcing the program’s message of nurturing a healthy lifestyle. This thoughtful inclusion highlighted the cultural significance of Tulsi, known for its medicinal properties, and served as a lasting reminder of the event’s focus on promoting long-term health and wellness.

The event concluded with heartfelt gratitude expressed to all participants for their presence, contributions, and support in making the day a memorable success. Overall, the gathering served as a platform for seniors to socialize, share their experiences, and engage in enriching activities, positively impacting all attendees. Looking forward, we are eager to plan future events that continue to promote the well-being and happiness of our elderly community members. We will incorporate suggestions and feedback from participants to ensure these events remain inclusive and relevant.

The Monthly Elderly Gathering held on April 9th, 2024, at Choti Jugauli, was a resounding success, filled with warmth, camaraderie, and meaningful activities. Attendees were greeted with enthusiasm and a welcoming atmosphere, setting the tone for an engaging and memorable event, bringing together volunteers from HCL Tech, our dedicated field volunteers and supervisors, as well as project members.

The gathering commenced with a warm welcome extended to all attendees, followed by introductions to foster connections and a sense of community. Participants then shared captivating stories and personal experiences, creating an atmosphere of nostalgia and mutual understanding. The colouring activity provided a creative outlet for participants to express themselves artistically and engage in therapeutic relaxation, while a lively game of passing the ball encouraged laughter, interaction, and physical activity among attendees. The plantation drive allowed participants to contribute to environmental conservation while enjoying the outdoors and connecting with nature.

The gathering concluded with heartfelt thanks extended to all participants for their presence, contributions, and support in making the event a memorable success. Overall, the gathering provided a platform for seniors to socialize, share experiences, and engage in enriching activities, leaving a positive impact on all attendees.

Looking ahead, we are excited to plan future events that continue to promote the well-being and happiness of our elderly community members, incorporating suggestions and feedback from participants to ensure inclusivity and relevance.

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The Stakeholder Meeting convened on 21st March 2024 at Golden Tulip, Lucknow, emerged as a pivotal forum, gathering key players invested in the Geriatric Care Project. The meeting was graced by Dr. BPS Kalyani, Director of Health, as the esteemed Chief Guest. Hosted by Mr. Vivek Awasthi, Executive Director of UPVHA, the gathering witnessed the participation of distinguished guests, including Dr. Laxman Singh, General Manager, National Programs, NHM, UP; Dr. Alka Sharma, State Program Officer, NCD; and Dr. Mukesh Matanhelia, State Nodal Officer, NTCP. The session commenced with an invigorating welcome, setting the tone for collaborative engagement.

Ms. Kavita Kumari, Associate Manager Head of Health at HCL Foundation, provided attendees with insights into HCLF’s overarching initiatives, underscoring their commitment to healthcare interventions. Subsequently, Mr. Birjesh Pathak, the adept Project Manager, meticulously delineated the project’s trajectory, elucidating its core objectives and milestones achieved, while also delineating forthcoming milestones, engendering a holistic understanding among participants.

Dr. Pretesh Rohan Kiran, a distinguished Consultant in Public Health and Community Geriatrics, steered deliberations on stakeholder roles and responsibilities, fostering interactive exchanges aimed at synergizing efforts for optimal project outcomes. This segment facilitated a profound exploration of potential challenges and concerns, with Dr. Kiran adeptly guiding stakeholders toward identifying obstacles and fostering collaborative problem-solving. Mr. Vivek Awasthi, Executive Director, extended a gracious vote of thanks, acknowledging the collective dedication of stakeholders and paving the way for a promising future trajectory. The convivial networking lunch that ensued provided a fertile ground for fostering synergies, nurturing relationships, and fostering a shared commitment to advancing geriatric care endeavors in Lucknow. The meeting, characterized by its depth of dialogue, strategic foresight, and collaborative spirit, epitomized a significant milestone in the journey towards enhancing geriatric care provision, underscoring the transformative potential of collective action and partnership.

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