Assam Rifles, Indian Army mark World No Tobacco Day with awareness drives across State
Source: The Sangai Express / IGAR(S)/PIB

Chandel/Bishnupur, May 31 2026: Marking World No Tobacco Day 2026, Assam Rifles and the Indian Army organised a series of awareness programmes in Chandel and Bishnupur districts to educate the public, particularly young people, about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and to promote a healthy, tobacco-free lifestyle.

In Chandel district, Assam Rifles conducted comprehensive awareness programmes at Sehlon, Kovang and Chakpikarong villages under this year's World No Tobacco Day theme, "Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference".

The initiative focused on safeguarding youth from harmful addictive substances and misleading tobacco industry marketing practices.

According to IGAR (South), the programme commenced at Sehlon and Kovang villages, where medical personnel conducted specialised health awareness sessions and medical camps for nearly 200 villagers.

During the programme, the Medical Officer of Assam Rifles explained the adverse physical and mental health consequences of tobacco consumption and provided health counselling.

Essential medicines were also distributed to the participants.

The awareness campaign later extended to the Oriental Children Home at Chakpikarong, where 45 participants, including 40 students and five teachers, took part in an interactive session.

The students were sensitised to the serious health, social and economic consequences of tobacco use and encouraged to become advocates for a tobacco-free society within their families and communities.

The programme concluded with a collective pledge by 245 participants to abstain from tobacco products and contribute towards building a disciplined and drug-free society.

Meanwhile, in Bishnupur district, the Indian Army organised an anti-tobacco awareness programme at Sagang Higher Secondary School on Sunday.

The event brought together students and members of the local community with the objective of spreading awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and encouraging healthier lifestyle choices.

The programme featured an address by a Medical Officer, highlighting the various health risks associated with tobacco consumption.

The programme also featured an interactive quiz competition, slogan-writing contest and an anti-tobacco pledge ceremony aimed at reinforcing the message of tobacco prevention.

A total of 73 participants, including 67 students and six staff members, attended the event.

The three best slogans were awarded prizes in recognition of the participants' creativity and commitment to promoting a tobacco-free society.

Both initiatives underscored the continued efforts of the security forces to engage with local communities on important social and public health issues.

Through awareness campaigns and outreach programmes, Assam Rifles and the Indian Army reaffirmed their commitment to fostering healthier communities and empowering the younger generation to make informed and responsible choices.

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