The Journey of ActOn Youth Forum

Tobacco use remains a significant public health challenge, with its associated health risks and financial burdens. In India, the battle against tobacco is ongoing, marked by progress but persistent challenges. The Act on Youth Forum a crucial component of the Tobacco-Free Youth campaign organized by Nada India Foundation, unfolded online from August to November 2023.

Let's delve into the themes discussed, concerns raised, and solutions explored.

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  Tobacco-Free Panchayat: Role of Panchayat Representatives: The Forum on 4th August 2023 emphasized on local governance and community involvement showcases a grassroots approach to address tobacco issues. Solutions likely involve empowering Panchayat representatives and fostering community-driven initiatives.
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• Go Green Healthy Campus: Towards Sustainable Growth
• (International Youth Day 2023): Forum on 11th August 2023 focused on environmental sustainability aligns health with broader ecological concerns. Solutions may include campus-wide sustainability programs and youth-led initiatives for a healthier environment.
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• Tobacco Ruins Lives: The Issue and Solutions: Forum on 18th August 2023 candid discussion on the effects of tobacco is vital. Solutions may include educational
• programs, support for cessation and community-based interventions to mitigate the impact.

• Strengthening Tobacco Laws and New OTT Guidelines: on 25th August 2023,

• Forum Addressed the challenges of New OTT Guidelines.

• Solutions involve understanding and adapting to evolving regulations and

• educating the public about the risks associated with non-compliance of OTT Rules

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• Navigating New Tobacco Disclaimer OTT Rules: The Forum on 1st September 2023 addressed the challenges of new media landscapes is crucial. Solutions involve understanding and adapting to evolving regulations and educating the public about the risks associated with tobacco.
• Tobacco Control Laws State Level Challenges and Gaps: The Forum on 8th September 2023. Speakers analyzed challenges at the state level is a critical step. Solutions may include policy advocacy, collaboration between stakeholders, and strengthening implementation mechanisms.
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• HP Govt Initiatives of Health Promotion Programs:  The Forum on15th September 2023) explored health promotion programs aligns with official health policies.
• Solutions involve active participation in government initiatives.
• supporting existing programs and proposing innovative health promotion strategies.
• Tobacco Use Among School Youth and COTPA Gaps: The Forum on 22nd September 2023 addressed tobacco use among school youth is vital for prevention.
• Solutions may include school-based education, stricter enforcement of COTPA
• and community engagement to create a tobacco-free environment.
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• COTPA Scope and Gaps: Himachal and Punjab: The 29th of September 2023 Forum, speakers evaluated scope and gaps regionally is essential. Solutions involve cross-state collaboration, sharing best practices, and jointly addressing common challenges.
• COTPA 2020 Amendments at State Level:
• The Forum on 6th October 2023 delved into specific amendments allows for a nuanced understanding. Solutions may involve advocating for effective implementation of these amendments and addressing any unintended consequences.
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• Youth for Change in Tobacco Control Laws: The Forum on 13th October 2023
• discussed on mobilizing youth for advocacy is a proactive strategy. Solutions include youth-led campaigns, policy dialogues, and leveraging technology for effective communication.
• Strengthening Tobacco Laws and Violation of New OTT Guidelines:
• The 20th of October 2023 forum stressed on strategies for strengthening existing Tobacco laws.
• Solutions may involve advocating for stricter penalties. raising awareness and engaging
• with authorities to enforce regulations effectively.

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• Empowering Youth: Navigating Tobacco Control Regulations and Impact on New OTT Guidelines: The 27th of October 2023 forum speaker stressed on empowering youth with insights is crucial. Solutions involve education, mentorship programs, and creating platforms for youth participation in shaping regulations.

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  Health Tax Proposal: The Forum on 3rd November 2023 explored the Health Tax proposal. It discussed that it involves economic measures. Solutions may include advocating for its implementation, creating awareness about its benefits, and demonstrating its positive impact on public health.
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• Risk of Cancer and Health Tax: The Forum on 10th of November 2023, highlighted the Tobacco and cancer risk. It emphasized that health consequences of tobacco use. Solutions involve linking the Health Tax directly to health outcomes, making the economic argument for prevention. Youth Voices: Tobacco Tax for Health: The Forum on 17th of November 2023 Amplified youth voices in advocating for tobacco tax measures is impactful. Solutions include youth-led campaigns, public engagement, and leveraging social media to amplify the message.

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  Economic Upturn: Health Taxation Fuels Tobacco-Free Lifestyle:  Forum on 24th of November 2023 explored economic benefits and lifestyle improvements aligns health with broader societal goals. Solutions may involve showcasing successful models, economic analyses, and engaging with policymakers to emphasize the positive impact of health taxation.

• In conclusion, the Act on Youth Forum's journey through these themes exemplifies a dynamic and comprehensive approach to addressing tobacco challenges. From local governance to international awareness, the discussions and proposed solutions reflect a collective effort to create a tobacco-free, sustainable, and healthier future. The youth-led initiatives within the Tobacco-Free Youth campaign are pivotal in driving positive change, and their advocacy efforts contribute significantly to the broader goal of curbing tobacco use.