LR Institute Celebrates World No Tobacco Day with Legal Awareness Program
2 min read
LR Institute of Legal Studies, in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority, Solan, celebrated “World No Tobacco Day 2024” on campus. The event saw enthusiastic participation from law department students. Dr. R.P. Nanta, the Director, highlighted the significance of May 31st as World No Tobacco Day.
This year, once again, the World Health Organization (WHO) and global public health campaigns have come together to raise awareness about the harmful effects of the tobacco industry on youth. The one-day discussion focused on “Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference.”
The theme for 2024 emphasized advocating for the cessation of targeting youth with harmful tobacco products. The discussion provided a platform for young people, policymakers, and tobacco control advocates globally to discuss the issue and urge governments to adopt policies that protect youth from the deceptive practices of the tobacco industry.
Despite unprecedented efforts by the tobacco control community leading to a decline in cigarette smoking over the past few years, more work is needed to safeguard vulnerable groups. According to 2022 data, at least 37 million young people aged 13-15 worldwide use some form of tobacco.
Dr. Nanta addressed why the tobacco industry targets youth, explaining that to generate billions in revenue, the industry needs to replace the millions of customers who die or quit tobacco use each year. To achieve this, the industry creates an environment that promotes its products among the next generation, including ensuring loose regulation so that its products remain available and affordable. It also develops products and advertising strategies that appeal to children and adolescents, reaching them through social media and streaming platforms.
Products like electronic cigarettes and nicotine pouches are gaining popularity among the youth. The industry deliberately sells deadly addiction to the young, calling on governments and the tobacco control community to protect current and future generations and hold the tobacco industry accountable for the harm it causes.
The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) of 2003 was also discussed, highlighting its punitive provisions. Miss Akriti, Nisha, and Preeti shared their thoughts on the occasion.
Teachers and students took a pledge to keep the campus tobacco-free, recognizing the importance of saving students’ lives as a national asset. The day’s discussion was found to be informative and useful, reflecting the interest of both teachers and students.
