LEH: The Health Department, Leh, on Monday organised a large-scale awareness campaign comprising a public rally, street plays and interactive outreach programmes to mark World No Tobacco Day 2026, with health experts warning against the growing prevalence of tobacco use, particularly among adolescents, and calling for stronger community engagement to curb addiction.
The campaign commenced at SNM Hospital and culminated at Leh Main Market, where students delivered anti-tobacco messages through street theatre and cultural performances aimed at sensitising the public to the health and social consequences of tobacco consumption.
Addressing participants at the inaugural programme, Medical Superintendent of SNM Hospital, Dr. Yangchan, emphasised the significance of sustained awareness initiatives in tackling tobacco-related health risks. Chief Medical Officer, Leh, Dr. Rinchen Chosdon, said the observance should serve as a platform for long-term behavioural change rather than a symbolic annual event.
She stressed that addressing tobacco addiction requires collective responsibility and community support, noting that social pressures, stigma and emotional stress can often push individuals towards unhealthy coping mechanisms. Creating a supportive social environment, she said, is essential for promoting healthier lifestyles and preventing addiction.
Cardiologist Dr. Lotus highlighted the increasing incidence of tobacco use among adolescents, describing the trend as a growing public health concern. He said awareness campaigns in educational institutions were particularly important as adolescence remains a vulnerable stage during which many addictive habits are formed. He also outlined the range of diseases linked to tobacco use and described smoking as one of the most addictive forms of substance dependence.
Director, Health Department, UT Ladakh, Dr. Tashi Thinles, who flagged off the rally, spoke about the psychological and physiological factors associated with addiction and urged students to make informed choices and resist tobacco use.
Students from Moravian Mission School and Lamdon Model Senior Secondary School performed street plays and an anti-tobacco rap presentation, drawing considerable public attention and reinforcing the campaign’s message of a tobacco-free society.
The programme concluded with a felicitation ceremony for participating students and a renewed appeal from health officials for sustained public participation in tobacco prevention efforts.
