Indore (Madhya Pradesh): On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day on Saturday, a series of activities promoting tobacco control and public awareness were organised by the Madhya Pradesh Voluntary Health Association (MPVHA).

These events were held in collaboration with the health department, Indore Dental College, Cancer Society Indore, Madhya Pradesh Tobacco Free Alliance, SDPS Nursing College, St. Francis College, ISSW College and over 30 partner institutions in the MPVHA network.

The grand inauguration of the Tobacco Awareness Van, operated by MPVHA, took place at the Indore district Headquarters. Chief medical and health officer Dr BS Saitya and MPVHA executive director Mukesh Kumar Sinha flagged off the van.

In the coming days, this awareness van will visit various wards, schools, public places and rural areas in Indore. Through audio messages, flex banners, posters, pamphlets and digital media, the van will disseminate information about tobacco-related diseases such as cancer, heart disease and respiratory and oral illnesses.

The aim is to protect future generations from the evil of tobacco and promote strong regulatory actions.

A human chain and oath-taking ceremony were organised by the district education department in Malhar Ashram School, Indore. Over 200 school principals participated in the programme.