World No Tobacco Day 2026 Awareness Program at N.E.T Pharmacy College
The Department of Pharmacy Practice, N.E.T Pharmacy College, Raichur, organized an awareness program on World No Tobacco Day 2026 on 1st June 2026 at Lecture Hall–3. The program was conducted under the theme “Unmasking the Appeal – Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction” with the objective of educating students about the harmful effects of tobacco use, nicotine addiction, tobacco control laws, and the importance of promoting a tobacco-free society.
The program commenced with the welcoming of dignitaries to the dais. The dignitaries included Mr. Binu K.M., Associate Professor and Head, Department of Pharmacy Practice, N.E.T Pharmacy College, Raichur, and the guest speaker, Dr. Roopakala, Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine, NMCH&RC, Raichur.
The event was anchored by Mr. Aditya, Pharm D Intern, who welcomed the gathering comprising faculty members, Pharm D students, D Pharm students, interns, and other participants. As a token of appreciation and respect, saplings were presented to the dignitaries, symbolizing health, growth, and environmental responsibility.
Dr. Syed Mohammed, Lecturer, Department of Pharmacy Practice, formally introduced the guest speaker and highlighted her professional achievements and contributions in the field of Community Medicine and public health.
Dr. Roopakala delivered an informative and engaging session on the theme “Unmasking the Appeal – Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction.” She explained the various forms of tobacco consumption, including cigarettes, bidis, cigars, chewing tobacco, gutka, khaini, hookah, vaping products, and other nicotine-containing products. She elaborated on the harmful effects of tobacco use and its association with oral cancer, lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory disorders, stroke, infertility, and reduced quality of life.
During her presentation, she highlighted that India is the second largest producer and consumer of tobacco products in the world, making tobacco control a significant public health priority. She also explained that smoking even a single cigarette can reduce life expectancy and emphasized the cumulative impact of tobacco use on overall health and wellbeing.
The speaker discussed nicotine dependence and various approaches to tobacco cessation, including behavioral modification, counseling, nicotine replacement therapies, and professional support systems. She encouraged students to adopt healthy lifestyles and actively support tobacco cessation initiatives within their communities.
Special emphasis was given to tobacco control laws and regulations in India. Dr. Roopakala explained the legal restrictions on the sale and use of tobacco products, penalties associated with violations, and regulations prohibiting the sale of tobacco products near educational institutions and to minors. She encouraged students to exercise their rights as responsible citizens by reporting illegal tobacco sales near schools and colleges.
The session also addressed the advertising and marketing strategies employed by tobacco companies to attract young consumers. She cautioned students against misleading promotional tactics and stressed the importance of making informed health decisions.
Further discussions focused on passive smoking, the social and economic burden of tobacco use, mental and psychological aspects of addiction, and the crucial role healthcare professionals play in creating awareness and supporting tobacco cessation programs. The session was highly interactive, with students actively participating through questions and discussions.
Following the guest lecture, Pharm D interns presented an awareness video highlighting the dangers of tobacco addiction and the importance of adopting a tobacco-free lifestyle. The presentation reinforced the key messages delivered during the session.
As a token of appreciation, Mr. Binu K.M., Associate Professor and Head, Department of Pharmacy Practice, presented a certificate and memento to Dr. Roopakala in recognition of her valuable contribution to the program.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Aditya, who expressed gratitude to the guest speaker, management, faculty members, organizers, and participants for contributing to the success of the program.
The awareness program witnessed enthusiastic participation from Pharm D students, D Pharm students, and Pharm D interns. The event successfully promoted awareness regarding tobacco hazards, tobacco control measures, and the importance of building a healthier and tobacco-free society.