31/05/2025
Press Release
Dated: 31st May 2025
Walkathon Marks World No To***co Day 2025 in Srinagar Despite Rain
Srinagar, May 31:
On the eve of World No To***co Day 2025, the State To***co Control Cell (STCC), Directorate of Health Services Kashmir organized a Walkathon in collaboration with stakeholders from the Education Department, with active support from the Jammu & Kashmir Police and District Administration Srinagar.
Despite incessant rain, the event witnessed enthusiastic participation of more than 300 individuals, including students, teachers, healthcare professionals, officers, volunteers, and members of the civil society. The Walkathon commenced from Lalit Ghat and concluded at Nehru Park, Srinagar, symbolizing a collective resolve against to***co use.
The walkathon was flagged off by Dr Jehangir Bakshi, Director Health Services Kashmir where other officials including Dr Jehanzaib Tanki (Deputy Director Dentistry) Nodal Officer NTCP Kashmir, Deputy Director Headquarters, Chief Accounts officer, Deputy Director Schemes, Medical Superintendent JLNM Hospital, Assistant Directors DHSK, State Surveillance Officer Kashmir and Chief Medical Officer Srinagar, were also present.
Addressing the participants, Dr.Jehangir Bakshi emphasized the importance of building a to***co-free society and urged individuals from all walks of life to avoid smoking for a healthier life. He highlighted the pressing need to protect the youth from the to***co industry's evolving strategies, especially tactics include the use of flavors, attractive packaging, and marketing strategies that mimic sweets or use cartoon characters to entice youth.
He emphasized the role of youth, health professionals and Community Leaders in advocating for a healthier, smoke-free future.
Dr. Jehanzaib Tanki Nodal Officer for NTCP led the coordination of the event, which saw enthusiastic participation from students, healthcare workers, civil society organizations and the general public. He expressed sincere gratitude to all participants and stakeholders for their active involvement, especially for braving the rain to support the cause of to***co control and public health.
The Walkathon was part of a broader awareness campaign aligned with the World Health Organization (WHO) theme for World No To***co Day 2025,
“Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on To***co and Ni****ne Products”
The Directorate of Health Services Kashmir extends sincere thanks to all departments, stakeholders, and individuals who contributed to the success of the event and reaffirmed their commitment to a to***co-free future.
