The workshop was presided by Akhil Kumar Mishra, ADG, PIB & CBC (Odisha & Jharkhand Region), who delivered the keynote address. Shri Shibo Toppo, Additional District Magistrate, Cuttack attended as Distinguished Guest, while Prof. Surendra Nath Senapati, Acharya Harihar Post Graduate Institute of Cancer, Cuttack, Dr. Prasanta Kumar Hota, CDMO, Cuttack, and Shri Tapan Kumar Mishra, Editor, The Samaja graced the occasion as Guest of Honour.
In his address, Akhil Kumar Mishra, emphasised the need for strict compliance with anti-tobacco regulations to protect public health. He said that building a tobacco-free society requires active community participation, with every individual and institution contributing to awareness and prevention. He also called for stronger social media outreach to inspire youth and amplify awareness, stressing that collective communication and public engagement are key to lasting change.
While addressing the gathering, Shibo Toppo, said that the fight against tobacco demands united action from the administration, media, and society. He emphasised that strong awareness and responsible communication are key to protecting youth and building a tobacco-free community.
Prof. Surendra Nath Senapati, remarked that tobacco may look small but claims millions of lives every year. He expressed concern over its easy accessibility to youth and adults, stressing the urgent need for stricter control and greater awareness to protect the next generation.
Dr. Prasanta Kumar Hota, said that tobacco promotion should be banned across all media. He urged celebrities to stop endorsements and departments to hold awareness drives. Citing that about 90% of youth aged 13 to 15 are exposed to tobacco, he called for strict action and united efforts to curb its rise.
Tapan Kumar Mishra, expressed concern over many children imitating tobacco habits by observing elders at home, creating a dangerous cycle. He warned that addiction can push youth to extreme acts, even against their parents, and urged families and media to work together to break this vicious chain.
Pradeep Kumar Choudhury, Assistant Director, CBC welcomed participants and said “Varta” connects government and media to raise awareness on tobacco’s harmful effects.
Youth and media participants, along with individuals who have successfully quit tobacco use, shared their experiences of recovery, reaffirming the role of awareness and social responsibility in creating a tobacco-free community.
The workshop concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Mahendra Prasad Jena, Assistant Director, PIB .
