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In a significant move to protect youth from tobacco, Chhattisgarh has officially designated 4,577 new educational institutions as tobacco-free, raising the total number of such institutions in the state to 14,948, as reported by officials on Friday. The state is implementing a comprehensive strategy that includes prevention, guidance for quitting, treatment options, and strict enforcement of laws against violations.

This integrated approach has shown results, with 70,440 individuals receiving counseling to quit tobacco in the 2025-26 period, and 6,563 individuals benefiting from counseling combined with pharmacotherapy. The recent declaration of 4,577 new tobacco-free educational institutions is part of the Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (TOFEI) campaign.

With the addition of these new institutions, the total now includes 14,948 tobacco-free educational facilities, encompassing government and private schools, colleges, and other educational entities. Officials emphasized the importance of effective law enforcement in the tobacco control campaign.

During the year, 7,783 fines were issued for violations of the smoking ban in public places, resulting in a total penalty of ₹10,97,670. Additionally, there were 1,088 fines for selling or purchasing tobacco products by individuals under 18 years of age, and 1,187 fines for selling tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions. To enhance tobacco control, the health department has collaborated with police, food and drug administration, agriculture, education, higher education, and technical education departments.

Training sessions have been organized for officials and staff across various departments. A state-level law enforcement training program saw participation from 84 individuals, while 90 participants attended TOFEI-related training. At the district level, 123 training activities engaged 15,113 participants throughout the year.

Recognizing the oral health risks associated with tobacco use, the national tobacco control program has been integrated with the national oral health program. As part of this initiative, 34 dentists have been trained to provide services at tobacco cessation centers. In the 2025-26 period, the oral health program delivered 8,79,253 outpatient services and conducted 3,60,263 dental procedures.

Officials noted that by combining awareness, guidance for quitting tobacco, treatment options, and the effective implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, Chhattisgarh has developed a comprehensive approach to public health.