Workshops, Rallies, and Public Awareness Campaigns Organized to Raise Awareness About the Side Effects of Tobacco Use

Surat. On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day, the main district-level program for Surat district was organized on May 31 at the Psychiatry Department of New Civil Hospital. The aim of the program was to raise awareness among people about the physical, mental, and social side effects of tobacco use.

The program was organized under the guidance of the Dean of Government Medical College, the Medical Superintendent, the Chief District Health Officer and the nodal officer of the District Tobacco Control Program. This campaign received inspiration and direction from the Epidemic Medical Officer.

On this occasion, a special workshop was organized for the staff working at Civil Hospital, providing information about the health risks and social impacts of tobacco use. The District Tobacco Control Cell also organized awareness programs in various taluka areas, primary health centers, and rural areas of the district.

Under the campaign, public awareness rallies, guidance sessions on the Tobacco Control Act (COTPA-2003), and special workshops were organized for staff, nursing students, ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, and community leaders.

The tobacco control awareness campaign started at the Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Umarpada taluka. Here, students were informed about avoiding the temptations of the tobacco industry and the dangers of passive smoking.

Health workers, nursing students, ASHA workers, and Anganwadi workers enthusiastically participated in the organized awareness rally. During the rally, people were motivated to adopt a substance-free and healthy life through slogans such as “One, two, three, four – leave tobacco and cigarettes, friend” and “Leave tobacco, leave cigarettes.”

In the program, the Epidemiologist provided detailed information about the diseases caused by tobacco use and the key provisions of the Tobacco Control Act (COTPA)-2003. Children also called on everyone to adopt a tobacco-free life by delivering the message “Choose life, not tobacco.”

The team of the District Tobacco Control Cell, resident doctors of the Psychiatry Department, health workers, and staff of taluka and primary health centers made significant contributions to making the program a success. At the end of the program, the District Counselor expressed gratitude to everyone.

New Civil Hospital

The New Civil Hospital, often associated with colonial-era medical infrastructure in India, was established in the late 19th or early 20th century to provide modern healthcare to the local population. It represents a shift from traditional medicine to Western medical practices under British rule. Today, many such hospitals continue to serve as key public health institutions, though their historic buildings often face challenges of preservation and modernization.

Surat

Surat is a historic port city in the Indian state of Gujarat, known for its significant role in trade and commerce during the Mughal era. It was a major hub for the diamond and textile industries, and it served as the primary port for pilgrims traveling to Mecca. Today, Surat is a thriving industrial center, famous for its diamond cutting and polishing industry, as well as its rich cultural heritage.

Government Medical College

The Government Medical College (GMC) is a prestigious institution for medical education and research, with its origins often dating back to the British colonial era in India. Many of these colleges, such as the ones in Nagpur or Patiala, were established in the 19th or early 20th centuries to train doctors and address public health needs. Today, they serve as major healthcare hubs, combining historical legacy with modern medical training.

Industrial Training Institute (ITI)

The Industrial Training Institute (ITI) is a network of vocational training centers in India, established to provide skill-based education and technical training to youth. The first ITI was founded in 1950, following the recommendations of the Indian government’s Industrial Training Council, to address the country’s need for skilled workers in various trades. Today, ITIs operate under the Directorate General of Training (DGT) and offer courses in engineering and non-engineering fields, playing a crucial role in workforce development.

Umarpada taluka

Umarpada is a taluka (administrative subdivision) located in the Surat district of Gujarat, India. Historically, the area is known for its tribal communities and was part of the larger Surat region under various rulers, including the Marathas and the British. Today, it is recognized for its natural beauty, including waterfalls and green landscapes, as well as cultural traditions of the local Adivasi population.