'Educate people about hazards of tobacco products'

Srinagar, May 31: The Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Srinagar in collaboration with Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Hazratbal, Srinagar commemorated 'World No Tobacco Day.'

The theme of the event was 'Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference'. Principal Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Hazratbal, Srinagar, Fayaz Ahmad Fayaz, inaugurated the event which comprising an array of activities including a lecture series by resource personnel from the Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College, Srinagar, Dr. Ayman Nisar and Dr. Darakshan. Essay writing and poster competitions were also organised which witnessed proactive and enthusiastic participation by the students of the school and its affiliated institutions.

The students also presented a vibrant and engaging skit highlighting the hazards posed by tobacco use. The winners of the poster and essay writing competitions were felicitated on the occasion. The programme was organised and coordinated by Dr. Sameena Yousuf and Dr. Rifat Jan, lecturers Department of Community Medicine, GMC Srinagar,

Dr. S. Muhammad Salim Khan, Professor and HOD Community Medicine GMC Srinagar said there is a need to educate people about hazards of cigarettes and other tobacco products that causes scores of diseases and also makes them liable to other addictions as is evident from substance abusers, he said. The COTPA needs stringent implementation and heavy taxes be levied on cigarettes and other tobacco products, he added.