BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 27th November 2025: In the current social context, tobacco control has emerged as a pressing public concern. Across the country, initiatives continue to foster awareness and build a collective mindset against tobacco use. In Tripura, the Voluntary Health Association of Tripura (VHAT) has consistently taken a leading role in promoting anti-tobacco awareness.
Recently, VHAT organized a Sensitization Workshop on Tobacco Control and Substance Abuse under the banner of National Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 3.0. The event was held at the MBB Auditorium of Tripura University, Agartala.
The workshop was inaugurated with a lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by a welcome address from Dr. Rajesh Chatterjee, Assistant Professor at Tripura University. The program was graced by Tinku Roy, Minister for Social Education, Social Welfare, Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of Tripura, who attended as the Chief Guest. Also present were Saju Waheed A, Mission Director of the National Health Mission, Tripura; Prof. Shyamal Das, Acting Vice-Chancellor of Tripura University; Dr. Shreelakha Roy, President of the Voluntary Health Association of Tripura (VHAT); and Dr. Sujit Ghosh, Executive Director of VHAT.
Speakers emphasized the urgent need to build a tobacco-free state and nation, discussing the harmful effects of tobacco and substance abuse. Each guest urged the youth to commit themselves to creating a healthier, tobacco-free society.
Minister Tinku Roy praised the timeliness of the initiative, stressing its importance for students and young people. He called upon all sections of society to actively participate in the movement toward a tobacco-free future.
In the technical session, Shubrojit Bhattacharjee, Assistant Director of Tripura AIDS Control Society, served as the resource person, further enriching the discussions with expert insights.
The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation, with a strong sense of unity and determination among attendees. The recurring message was clear: building a tobacco-free society requires collective effort, and the youth must lead the way.
