Punj celebrates No Tobacco Day

CHANDIGARH: Punjab government observed November 1 as 'No Tobacco Day' in an effort to discourage consumption in the region. State Health Minister Surjit Kumar Jyani released an official statement saying, "Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal has issued directions to all the Deputy Commissioners in this regard." He stated that the aim of the campaign was to reduce tobacco and nicotine use in Punjab in order to reduce prevalance of non-communicable diseases like cancer and cardiovascular diseases. He added that the sale of loose cigarettes, tobacco, and E-Cigarettes is banned in the state. The extent of drug addiction in the region is alarming. Rate of heroin abuse among 15 to 25 year olds near the border areas, is as high as 75 per cent, where as it is 73 in other rural areas.