Bhubaneswar: Odisha has earned national recognition for its exemplary performance in promoting oral health and curbing tobacco use among youth.
The state received a prestigious award from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, for its outstanding efforts during World Oral Health Day 2025 and the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 2.0.
The award and certificate of honour were presented to Odisha’s state consultant at a special ceremony held at AIIMS, New Delhi.
Odisha was also adjudged the best-performing state in the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 2.0, conducted between September and November 2024 over a 60-day period. The campaign successfully raised extensive awareness among young people about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption.
Officials said the honour reflects the state government’s sustained commitment to providing quality oral healthcare and strengthening healthcare services from rural villages to urban centers. Odisha’s continuous public health initiatives have drawn appreciation at the national level.
