Bhubaneswar: The Health and Family Welfare Department, Government of Odisha, in collaboration with the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP), observed World No Tobacco Day 2025 with a state-level function held at Geeta Gobinda Sadan today.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department Aswasthy S., chaired the programme and reaffirmed the State Government’s strong commitment to achieving a tobacco-free future through coordinated, multi-sectoral efforts.
The event underscored the need for interdepartmental collaboration and public participation to curb tobacco consumption and foster a healthier society.
On the occasion, a signature campaign was launched to encourage public pledges supporting a tobacco-free Odisha. Newly developed Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials were also released to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use, especially among youth and vulnerable communities.
Another key highlight was the launch of the NTCP Annual Activity Report 2024–25, showcasing district-wise progress, enforcement initiatives, and major achievements over the past year.
The event also witnessed the digital rollout of the Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI) web application. This platform will aid schools and colleges in self-assessing and reporting compliance with national tobacco-free guidelines.
Districts and Departments Felicitated
Three districts were felicitated for outstanding performance under the NTCP:
- Ganjam for overall implementation of the programme
- Sundergarh for effective enforcement of tobacco control laws
- Cuttack for efficient financial management
Five key departments were recognized for their cross-sectoral contributions:
- School and Mass Education
- Higher Education
- Excise
- Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water
- Home Department
These departments were instrumental in driving institutional enforcement, community mobilisation, and mass awareness.
Dr. J.M. Beborta, Special Secretary (Public Health), Dr. Amarendra Nath Mohanty, Director, SIHFW, and Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, Director of Public Health, spoke on the importance of early intervention and education to create a tobacco-free generation.
The event was coordinated by Dr. Sushanta Kumar Swain, Additional Director (NCD) and State Nodal Officer, NTCP.
