An anti-tobacco campaign in Bhubaneswar (file picture)

Bhubaneswar, Oct. 31: The educational institutions of the twin cities have decided to declare their campuses tobacco free.

Police of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack have pulled up its sleeves to take the anti-tobacco awareness campaign to education institutes.

The police have tied up with the Hemlata Cancer Hospital and Research Centre and the Voluntary Health Association of India, Aparajita, to help building awareness in the institutes — especially the technical and management ones.

A total of 1,500 students and faculties attended a sensitisation workshop at KIIT University on Saturday. The students were made aware of various laws under the Tobacco Control Act.

“The police have been taking steps to stop smoking in public place and tobacco sell within 100 yards of education institutes. There will be stricter implementation of the law in coming days,” said deputy commissioner of police Nitinjeet Singh.

Singh asked students to lodge complaint with the police whenever they see any violation of the act near their institute. Moreover, the university authorities ensured to contribute their best and also sought support from the police to strengthen the law enforcement and monitoring mechanism.

“Students must take up responsibility of their own lives and encourage positive peer pressure. As responsible citizens, they should know and comply with the law, inculcate healthy practice and ensure healthy environment. For this, all of us need to raise collective concern against tobacco,” said Itishree Kanungo of the voluntary health association.

Making a presentation on the ill impact of tobacco on our health, Dr A.K. Rath of Hemlata hospital explained the global as well as national health scenario concerning tobacco consumption. He talked about various prevailing myths with regard to tobacco and its use and impact.

“The gory pictures of cancer patients shown at the programme were scary. After seeing those, I do not think anyone can even think of trying tobacco,” said Prateek, a student.

As part of the campaign, short films and slides on anti-tobacco movement are already being screened at Utkal University.