Una, October 24 – Una district is currently on the path of positive social change. Launched with the powerful message of "Quit Tobacco, Choose Life," "Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 3.0" is evolving from a public awareness campaign into a social movement in the district. The campaign was launched by Deputy Commissioner Jatin Lal on October 9th at the Regional Hospital, Una, and will continue until December 8th.
This initiative is the third phase of previously successful campaigns organized by the Health Department, with a new strategy, extensive public participation, and departmental coordination.
The campaign aims to raise public awareness about the ill effects of tobacco consumption, inspire youth to lead a drug-free life, and make Una a completely "tobacco-free district." This campaign is also a decisive step towards achieving the statewide goal of a "tobacco-free Himachal."

**Campaign Gains Momentum with Public Participation
This campaign has evolved into a social movement, more than just a formal initiative of the administration. Deputy Commissioner Jatin Lal says that the success of this effort depends on the participation of every citizen. "Our aim is not limited to tobacco control alone, but to make Una a healthy, safe, and drug-free district."
Jatin Lal explains that to transform the campaign into a mass movement, Panchayati Raj institutions, non-governmental organizations, volunteer groups, and youth have been involved. Awareness is being spread at the village level through street plays, rallies, essay and painting competitions, and community meetings.
The message is also being rapidly disseminated on digital platforms and social media platforms to encourage more people to join the campaign.
The Deputy Commissioner has urged people to make this initiative a part of their lives and contribute to the pledge of a tobacco-free Himachal. He stated that this campaign not only promotes health safety but also serves as a major step towards a clean, empowered, and aware society.

**Strategy designed with youth at the center
The campaign's primary focus is on youth, as tobacco use often begins during adolescence. Deputy Commissioner Jatin Lal stated that special guidelines have been issued to declare educational institutions tobacco-free zones. It is being ensured that tobacco products are not sold within 100 yards of all schools and colleges.
The "Tobacco-Free Village" campaign is also being actively promoted at the Panchayat level. With the assistance of the police department, tobacco control laws under COTPA-2003 and PECA-2019 are being strictly enforced.
The Deputy Commissioner also clarified that strict action will be taken immediately if any bar or restaurant is found violating the rules, such as serving hookah. Additionally, strict enforcement of the Himachal Pradesh Tobacco Products Control Act, 2016, and the Prohibition of Loose Cigarette and Beedi Sale Act, 2016 has been emphasized.

**Every department is fulfilling its responsibility
Chief Medical Officer Dr. S.K. Verma explains that all departments have a coordinated role in this public campaign. Each department is working at its own level to ensure its success.
Continuous activities are being carried out to protect youth and students from the ill effects of tobacco and other drugs, so that the new generation can move towards a healthy, creative, and drug-free life. Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 3.0 is becoming not just a health program in Una, but a symbol of positive social change.