Chikkaballapura
The district administration has launched a major campaign to make 30 villages tobacco-free under the “Tobacco-Free Village” initiative, said District Collector P.N. Ravindra. The program aims to reduce tobacco consumption and raise awareness about its harmful effects among residents.
The announcement was made during a meeting held at the District Collectorate, chaired by the Collector, focusing on the campaign and its alignment with the national tobacco control strategy. Under this initiative, all local health workers and authorities will coordinate to educate communities and ensure the successful implementation of the program.
The campaign, referred to as “Tobacco-Free Village 3.0”, will run in the district until December 9, targeting awareness and preventive activities. Around 400 schools in the district are expected to participate, involving students in educational programs and outreach activities. During the campaign, 16 key checkpoints will monitor tobacco use and report violations.
In 2025, the administration aims to provide cessation support to 9,478 individuals, including counseling and treatment, with 739 cases already registered for assistance. Authorities emphasized the importance of early intervention, especially for minors and vulnerable groups, and instructed local officials to ensure proper monitoring and enforcement.
District officials also highlighted that awareness should extend across public spaces, rural councils, and urban areas to prevent tobacco-related harm. Health officers, including Dr. S.S. Bhaskar, RCH Officer Dr. G.V. Santosh Babu, and other local leaders, have been tasked with guiding the campaign and ensuring community engagement. The program underscores the government’s commitment to reducing tobacco consumption and promoting public health across Chikkaballapura district.
