Former Smokers declare ‘No Tobacco here’ in Kappikunnu, Wayanad

The Drug Rehabilitation Education and Mentoring (DREAM) programme in Wayanad joined forces with the Health Department to commemorate World No Tobacco Day in an event held at Meenangadi panchayat on 31 May 2023.

On this occasion, a groundbreaking initiative called ‘Puka Illa Wayanad’ was launched, designating Kappikunnu village in Meenangadi panchayat as the first tobacco-free village in the district. The inauguration was graced by Dr. Renu Raj IAS, the esteemed District Collector of Wayanad, and Dr. Priya Senan, Deputy DMO & District NCD Nodal Officer, who warmly welcomed the attendees. Sri. N I Shaju, Additional District Magistrate of Wayanad District, officially declared the village as tobacco-free.

In recognition of their inspiring commitment to quit smoking, the District Collector felicitated Sri. K Kunjiraman, the revered Ooru Mooppan (village head), along with other residents of the colony who had successfully overcome their smoking habits. As a symbol of a tobacco-free area, a “No Tobacco here” sticker was affixed to every house wall in the colony.

To raise awareness about the detrimental effects of smoking and substance abuse on social, physical, and mental health, the enthusiastic volunteers from the DREAM team put on a captivating flashmob and street play. Their powerful performances vividly showcased the consequences of such harmful habits.

Dream Wayanad’s World No Tobacco Day Celebration was a resounding success, spreading the message of a healthier and smoke-free community.