Chandigarh, June 20, 2024 – Dr. Balbir Singh, Punjab's Health Minister, inaugurated the National Workshop on ‘Implementation of WHO-MPOWER and FCTC Article 5.3,’ praising Punjab's progress in tobacco control, including a ban on hookah bars. Addressing 35 delegates from 12 states, he highlighted the importance of tobacco control initiatives. The event is organized by the Resource Centre for Tobacco Control (RCTC) at PGIMER Chandigarh, supported by Vital Strategies, and held at Hotel Mountview, Chandigarh.
Dr. Singh also released the 29th edition of the Tobacco-Free Times newsletter. Prof. Sonu Goel, RCTC Director, spoke on WHO FCTC Article 5.3, emphasizing a whole-of-government approach and the creation of a Tobacco Endgame Hub for state-specific policies. Dr. L. Swasticharan from the Ministry of Health and Dr. Rana J. Singh from Vital Strategies discussed the significance of Article 5.3 and effective policy implementation.
Dr. Abhinav Tarikha, IAS, Mission Director NHM, Punjab, commended efforts to counter tobacco industry interference and expedite tobacco control programs. Various dignitaries, including public health experts and government officials, participated in the workshop.