The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) on Tuesday officially declared all of its premises as 100 percent free from smoke and tobacco in line with the national directive.
DAE Director (Horticulture Wing) Dr Md Hazrat Ali made the announcement during a discussion titled “Declaration of the Department of Agricultural Extension as a 100% Smoke and Tobacco-Free Institution” held at its conference room.
Addressing the event as the chief guest, Hazrat Ali said the harmful effects of smoking are not limited to smokers alone; non-smokers are equally vulnerable to the dangers of second-hand smoke.
He further noted that smokeless tobacco products also cause oral cancer and several other serious diseases, posing a significant threat to public health.
“Therefore, from today onwards, the use, sale, and promotion of all tobacco products, including cigarettes, bidis, zarda, gul, and sada pata, will be completely prohibited on all premises of the Department of Agricultural Extension,” the official said.
Following the meeting, public notices, signboards, and stickers promoting smoke-free and tobacco-free premises were installed at key locations within the DAE.