Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh urges youth to lead anti-tobacco initiatives and create a healthier, tobacco-free future.
Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh called on the state’s youth to unite in leading a vigorous campaign against tobacco, describing them as key architects of a healthy, tobacco-free future. He emphasized that raising awareness to prevent tobacco use is the most effective tool to combat this menace.
Speaking at a Youth Conclave titled “Building a Tobacco-Free Generation through Promotion, Adaptation and Implementation of New Initiatives” at Panjab University, Dr. Singh encouraged students and young leaders to set an example, spreading tobacco control efforts from campuses to communities and online platforms. “Punjab’s true strength is its youth. When young people reject tobacco, the state’s future naturally becomes healthier, stronger, and more innovative,” he stated.
The event was organized by the Generation Savior Association (GSA) in collaboration with Panjab University’s Department of Public Health, Vital Strategies, S.I.P.H.E.R., and RCTC-PGIMER, drawing participation from students, experts, and civil society leaders.
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Dr. Singh highlighted that tobacco harms not only the body but also the mind, contributing to mental health issues, including suicidal tendencies and other psychological problems. “Tobacco consumption fosters addiction and can even lead to criminal behavior. We all must act to eliminate this social evil and protect society,” he asserted.
Noting Punjab’s achievements in tobacco control, the Minister pointed out that, according to NFHS-5, tobacco use in the state is among the lowest nationwide. He credited this to strict implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), prompt action against e-cigarettes, a permanent ban on hookah bars, and the availability of free tobacco cessation centers across all districts.
“These numbers show policy success, but true victory will be when tobacco use is seen as socially unacceptable,” Dr. Singh said, stressing that this cultural shift depends on aware and empowered youth. He also released a comprehensive study covering 10 states titled “Youth Perception towards Creating a Tobacco-Free Generation in India”, emphasizing youth-centered strategies.
Concluding his address, the Health Minister appealed for a united effort, urging citizens—especially the youth—to pledge a tobacco-free lifestyle. “Together, we can build a tobacco-free Punjab. The choices we make today will define the health and well-being of future generations,” he said.
The conclave was attended by prominent figures including Dr. Sonu Goyal (RCTC-PGIMER Head), Dr. Rakesh Gupta (SIPHER Chairman), Dr. Rana J. Singh (Vital Strategies Regional Director), Dr. Meera Aghi, Mrs. Opinder Preet Kaur Gill (GSA Director), Mr. Vivek Awasthi (UPVHA Executive Director), and Mr. Saptarshi Basu Ray (MANT).