“Workshop For Strengthen Implementation of Laws for Protecting Minors and Youth from Tobacco Exposure by National Law University Odisha held on July 19th, 2024 (Friday) “
Workshop For Strengthen Implementation of Laws for Protecting Minors and Youth from Tobacco Exposure
by
National Law University Odisha
On July 19th, 2024 (Friday) from 03:00 pm to 04:30 pm
National Law University of Odisha as a part of its Project on Tobacco Control Initiatives organized a national consultation to receive expert opinion for advancing effective tobacco control in India. The title of the consultation was ‘Workshop For Strengthen Implementation of Laws for Protecting Minors and Youth from Tobacco Exposure’ held on July 19th, 2024 (Friday) from 03:00 pm to 04:30 pm.
The consultation was started with project introduction followed by brief overview about the project. In the first part of the session Prof. (Dr.) RanginPallav Tripathy, in his welcome address to principals and teachers, underscored the critical need to protect minors and youth from tobacco exposure. He highlighted the alarming statistics and detrimental effects of tobacco use among young people, calling for a concerted effort to create a tobacco-free environment in schools. He emphasized the importance of education and awareness programs, urging educators to be vigilant and proactive in preventing tobacco use and promoting healthy lifestyles among students.
Dr Rishika Khare shared her thoughts on Data on Tobacco Usage among youth In Odisha.In Odisha, data on tobacco usage among youth reveals concerning trends. Despite efforts to reduce tobacco consumption, a significant number of minors and young adults continue to engage in smoking and chewing tobacco. Accessibility, peer influence, and lack of awareness about the health risks contribute to this persistent issue. Addressing these challenges requires targeted educational campaigns, strict enforcement of regulations, and supportive interventions to encourage healthier lifestyles among the youth population in Odisha.
Dr. Nancy Satpathy emphasized the importance of adhering to the Tobacco-Free Educational Institution (ToFEI) guidelines during her presentation. She highlighted the guidelines' role in creating a safe and healthy environment for students by prohibiting tobacco use within school premises and promoting awareness among staff, students, and parents. Dr. Satpathy underscored the need for schools to implement robust enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with ToFEI guidelines, fostering a culture of wellness and responsibility among educational communities in Odisha.
Ms. Meenakshi Panda shed light on the implementation challenges faced by schools regarding the Tobacco-Free Educational Institution (ToFEI) guidelines. She emphasized the importance of effectively enforcing these guidelines to create a tobacco-free environment in educational institutions across Odisha. Ms. Panda discussed various obstacles such as resistance from stakeholders, monitoring difficulties, and the need for continuous education and awareness among students and staff. She stressed the importance of collaborative efforts between schools, government agencies, and community organizations to successfully implement and sustain ToFEI guidelines, ensuring a healthier future for students.
Mr. Sudha Ranjan Rath discussed Tobacco prevalence among minors and youth in Odisha remains a pressing concern, with high rates of smoking and chewing tobacco observed despite efforts to reduce consumption. Challenges include easy accessibility to tobacco products, peer influence, and inadequate awareness of health risks. Solutions require stringent enforcement of tobacco control laws, comprehensive educational programs in schools, and community-based interventions promoting tobacco cessation and healthier lifestyles.
In conclusion, the workshop on strengthening the implementation of laws to protect minors and youth from tobacco exposure was a pivotal step forward in addressing a critical public health issue. Participants collectively recognized the urgent need for enhanced enforcement of existing laws and regulations aimed at curbing tobacco use among young people. Moving forward, sustained collaboration between stakeholders, robust educational initiatives, and community engagement will be essential to create a tobacco-free environment that safeguards the health and future of our youth.
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