Doctor-led campaign “Nasha Mukti Indradhanush Abhiyan India” aims to Make India addiction-free
IMT News Desk
Launched by the ACHE in collaboration with DAAD, the campaign unites healthcare professionals and citizens to combat addiction, driving significant policy changesThe 'Nasha Mukti Indradhanush Abhiyan India' is galvanising the nation with its signature campaign. Launched by the Asian Coalition for Health Empowerment (ACHE) in collaboration with Doctors Against Addiction (DAAD), the campaign is garnering unprecedented support from medical professionals and the public, paving the way for a healthier, addiction-free India.Over the past eight months, the campaign has seen a remarkable response, with more than 1,000 medical doctors, public health experts, and undergraduate (UG) and post-graduate (PG) medical students signing on to support the initiative. These signatures are being compiled and shared with health organisations and policymakers, including the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), to advocate for stringent measures in tobacco cessation.Dr Narender Saini, Former General Secretary, Indian Medical Association (IMA), asserts, “The Nasha Mukti Indradhanush Abhiyan India is not just a campaign; it's a movement towards a healthier future. The campaign embodies a comprehensive strategy to eradicate the grip of tobacco addiction while advocating for stricter policies to curb tobacco use and other harmful substances. We are witnessing a dynamic shift in how tobacco cessation is approached. The collective efforts of our dedicated healthcare professionals and the broader community in dispelling myths and fostering awareness are crucial steps toward a healthier society.”The campaign's focus extends beyond tobacco, targeting addictions like drugs, alcohol, and even smartphone overuse. It aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal-3 (SDG-3), which emphasises ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages, embodying a preventive and curative approach to tackling the crisis.Dr Pawan Gupta, Senior Consultant, Pulmonary Medicine, BLK-MAX Super Speciality Hospital Delhi, emphasises thecampaign’s comprehensive approach, saying, “We are witnessing a paradigm shift. Our strategy integrates global best practices with local insights, ensuring a robust framework for tackling addiction. By uniting healthcare professionals and concerned citizens, this campaign creates a powerful voice to advocate for better health practices and policies. This holistic approach is crucial for achieving our goals and making a lasting impact on public health.”Dr Sunaina Soni, Assistant Professor, Department of Physiology, Subharti Medical College, Meerut, echoes, “The overwhelming response from the medical community indicates the campaign’s importance. The signatures we've gathered will drive significant policy changes, making a tangible difference in the fight against addiction. Through this campaign, we’re not just collecting signatures; we’re inspiring hope and accountability. It’s about empowering individuals and communities to believe in and strive for a tobacco-free future.”
