How Punjab Government is Protecting Youth from Tobacco

The Government of Punjab has been taking strong and strategic steps to protect young people from the harmful effects of tobacco. With rising awareness about the health risks associated with smoking and smokeless tobacco, the province has prioritized youth-focused initiatives to build a healthier future generation. Below are the key ways the Punjab Government is working to keep its youth safe from tobacco.

1. Strict Enforcement of Tobacco Control Laws

To reduce access and exposure to tobacco, the Punjab Government actively enforces national and provincial tobacco control laws. Key actions include:

  • Ban on the sale of tobacco to anyone under 18
  • Prohibition of selling tobacco near educational institutions (within 100 meters)
  • Routine inspections by district enforcement teams
  • Penalties and fines for shops violating tobacco rules
  • Monitoring illegal tobacco advertising, especially near schools

These steps directly reduce the chances of children and teenagers being introduced to tobacco at a young age.

2. Awareness Campaigns in Schools and Colleges

Education plays a major role in prevention. The Punjab Government, through the Health Department and Tobacco Control Cells, regularly conducts:

  • Awareness seminars on the dangers of smoking
  • Interactive sessions for students to understand long-term health risks
  • Theatre plays, poster competitions, and essay contests
  • Distribution of IEC material (brochures, posters, leaflets)

Such activities make young people more informed and confident in saying “No” to tobacco.

3. Collaboration with Health, Education & Law Departments

A multi-departmental approach makes the strategy stronger:

  • School Education Department ensures tobacco-free school environments
  • Health Department provides material and technical support
  • Local authorities and police assist in enforcement
  • NGOs and youth groups support community-based anti-tobacco initiatives

This combined effort increases the reach and effectiveness of tobacco control across Punjab.

4. Creating Smoke-Free Public Spaces

To reduce youth exposure to second-hand smoke, the Punjab Government has declared many public sites as Smoke-Free Zones, including:

  • Hospitals
  • Parks
  • Public offices
  • Bus stands
  • Restaurants

Clear signage and enforcement teams help maintain these smoke-free areas, promoting a healthier social environment.

5. Support for Youth to Avoid or Quit Tobacco

The government is also focusing on helping young people quit or avoid addiction:

  • Quit-smoking counseling through health facilities
  • Guidance by health professionals on dangers of early-age smoking
  • Youth-targeted campaigns on social media
  • Reporting mechanisms for illegal tobacco sales

These initiatives support those who want to step away from tobacco use.