Sat May 31 13:56:51 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the text, formatted for “The Hindu”:
**NTR District Collector Pushes for Tobacco-Free Zone on No Tobacco Day**
**VIJAYAWADA, May 31, 2025** – As part of the No Tobacco Day program, NTR District Collector G. Lakshmisha spearheaded initiatives to combat tobacco use in the region. Addressing the public on Saturday, Mr. Lakshmisha urged residents to abstain from harmful substances like tobacco, gutka, and khaini and to actively participate in the state-wide ‘Yogandhra Campaign’ to foster a healthy society.
During an event at the Collectorate premises, Mr. Lakshmisha unveiled an awareness poster highlighting the detrimental health effects of tobacco use. He emphasized that tobacco consumption leads to serious health problems, including cancer, paralysis, blindness, and arterial damage. Individuals struggling with tobacco addiction were encouraged to seek support through yoga and counseling services, particularly at the district’s de-addiction centers.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to enforcing the ban on tobacco product sales near educational institutions, the Collector urged parents to monitor their children’s habits. Awareness campaigns are currently underway in colleges, conducted by NGOs. A mobile awareness vehicle was also launched as part of a signature campaign, with Mr. Lakshmisha signing a pledge to transform NTR district into a tobacco-free zone.
First Piper 