The health department Leh Distric today organised the mega launch of the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign (TFYC 4.0) – 2026 on 2nd November 2026 at Main Market, Leh, near the Staksang Raspa Statue. The campaign started with a rally aims to raise awareness among the general public, particularly the youth, about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and encourage collective efforts towards building a tobacco-free society.
The programme was organised as part of the nationwide Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 4.0 Director Health Services, UT Ladakh, Dr. Tashi Thinless, attended the event as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included Shri Manzoor Ahmad (JKPS), SP, ACB Ladakh/SHO Leh, and Shri Saqib Sharief Khan (JKAS), District Panchayat Officer, Leh, Chief Education Officer, Leh Smt. Deldan Angmo, along with representatives from various government departments and other stakeholders.
In her welcome address, Chief Medical Officer, Leh, Dr. Rinchen Chosdol, expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, officials and participants for their presence and support in making the campaign meaningful. She stressed that this campaign is for youth as they are the future Nation builders and students are the ambassadors to spread awareness regarding the tobacco free youth campaign and to make Ladakh healthier and happier.
Dr. Stanzin Jamyang, District Consultant, National Tobacco Control Programme, highlighted the importance of sustained and collective efforts to discourage tobacco consumption. He emphasised that the campaign should not remain limited to a single day but should contribute towards building a healthier society for future generations. He stressed the need for active participation from government departments, social organisations and the community in strengthening tobacco-control initiatives. He further highlighted the potential link between tobacco consumption and substance abuse, calling for individual and collective responsibility to prevent addiction and reduce the social acceptance of tobacco use. He informed that 156 villages have been identified as tobacco-free, while 42 villages are yet to achieve the status.
The campaign will also feature a 60-day awareness drive aimed at strengthening public participation and promoting sustained behavioural change.
Addressing the gathering, Director Health Services, UT Ladakh, Dr. Tashi Thinless, highlighted the serious health consequences of tobacco consumption, particularly its association with various types of cancer and other life-threatening diseases. He stressed the importance of awareness and preventive measures to protect public health, especially among the younger generation.
Shri Manzoor Ahmad (JKPS), SP, ACB Ladakh/SHO Leh, spoke about the growing challenge of drug abuse in Leh and outlined the measures being undertaken by the Police Department to curb the supply of narcotic substances. He informed that the Anti-Narcotics Task Force has been established to strengthen enforcement efforts and take necessary action against drug-related activities.
Shri Tashi Tundup, Consultant Psychiatrist, explained the psychological factors contributing to addiction and highlighted its adverse effects on the mental and physical well-being of individuals, particularly young people. He emphasised the importance of early intervention, awareness and appropriate support in preventing and addressing addiction.
Dr. Lotus Gyalson, Consultant Physician and DM Cardiologist, SNM Hospital, Leh, delivered an informative talk on the various health complications associated with tobacco consumption. He highlighted its harmful effects on different organs of the human body and stressed the importance of prevention and early awareness.
A street play (Nukkad Natak) presented by students of Boys Higher Secondary School, Leh, conveyed a strong message against tobacco use. The Ladakh Police Band also performed during the programme, contributing to the awareness campaign through music.
The event further featured the administration of a No Tobacco Pledge, reaffirming the participants’ commitment to promoting a tobacco-free environment. Certificates of participation and mementoes were also distributed in recognition of the contributions of participating institutions and individuals.
Students from the Ancillary Medical Training School and Boys Higher Secondary School, Leh, actively participated in the programme, highlighting the importance of youth engagement in creating awareness and building a tobacco-free society.
