World No -Tobacco Day – 2025

World No Tobacco Day (WNTD), observed annually on May 31st, serves as a global call to action against the pervasive burden of tobacco use. This year, under the theme “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products, “the focus was sharply on combating the deceptive marketing strategies employed by tobacco companies, particularly those targeting youth. In alignment with this crucial objective, a collaborative effort by Dr. Jeyasekharan College of Nursing, Nagercoil, and the District Health and Family Welfare Department culminated in an impactful rally and pledge ceremony to raise awareness and foster a tobacco-free generation in Kanyakumari district.

The day commenced with a poignant pledge, administered by Mr. J. Balasubramaniam, District Income Tax Officer. Participants include the District Health Officer, Principal, faculty, students of BSc (N) III year and II year, and health department officials, altogether solemnly vowing as follows:

• Abstain from all forms of tobacco and nicotine products, including cigarettes, bidis,

smokeless tobacco, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products.

• Actively discourage friends, family, and peers from initiating or continuing tobacco use.
• Motivate family and acquaintances not to smoke or use any form of Tobacco

products and shall motivate colleagues for the same

• Promote a tobacco-free environment in their homes, educational institutions, and

communities.

• Support initiatives aimed at tobacco control and cessation.
• Become ambassadors for a healthier, tobacco-free society.

The collective recitation of the pledge underscored the commitment of the participants towards

building a future free from the scourge of tobacco.

Students held aloft banners and placards emblazoned with powerful anti-tobacco messages. Slogans such as “Tobacco Kills,” “Say No to Nicotine, Yes to Life,” “Protect Our Youth: Unmask the Appeal,” and “Breathe Free, Live Long”.

The enthusiasm and commitment displayed by the college students, coupled with the support of the District Health and Family Welfare Department, offer a promising outlook for sustained tobacco control efforts in the region. And the programme ends up around 10:30 am.