Bhubaneswar, September 18: In a significant step towards promoting a healthier and cleaner working environment, the Odisha Government has declared the Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar a tobacco-free zone. The decision prohibits the use and consumption of tobacco products across the state secretariat premises and aims to strengthen efforts to discourage tobacco consumption among government employees, visitors and the general public.

The Health and Family Welfare Department issued a notification declaring the premises tobacco-free. Under the new directive, activities such as smoking, consuming tobacco products and spitting tobacco within the Lok Seva Bhawan complex will not be permitted. The restrictions are applicable throughout the premises, covering areas frequented by employees and visitors.

The government said the initiative is intended to create a healthier workplace while also maintaining cleanliness within one of the state's most important administrative establishments. Lok Seva Bhawan houses several key government offices and witnesses the daily movement of officials, employees, visitors and members of the public.

The notification also underlines the serious health consequences associated with tobacco consumption. Tobacco use is widely linked to several life-threatening diseases, including different forms of cancer, cardiovascular ailments and respiratory disorders. The government has therefore emphasised the importance of creating public spaces where people are protected from tobacco smoke and are encouraged to adopt healthier lifestyles.

Odisha Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling said the move is aimed at supporting the broader objectives of initiatives such as Swachh Bharat, Swasth Bharat and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. According to the minister, making Lok Seva Bhawan tobacco-free is an important step towards creating a cleaner and healthier environment and spreading a strong message about the harmful effects of tobacco.

The government has also stressed the importance of protecting younger generations from tobacco addiction. Officials have been encouraging greater public awareness about the long-term health risks associated with tobacco and the benefits of staying away from addictive substances.

Apart from its health implications, tobacco consumption can also affect public cleanliness. Spitting tobacco can leave stains and create unhygienic conditions in public buildings. The tobacco-free declaration at Lok Seva Bhawan is therefore expected to contribute to maintaining better sanitation and cleanliness within the premises.

The latest decision is part of Odisha's wider efforts to strengthen tobacco-control measures and promote awareness against addictive substances. The state has undertaken various awareness initiatives in recent years to educate people about the dangers of tobacco use and encourage healthier choices.

The declaration of Lok Seva Bhawan as a tobacco-free zone is expected to set an example for other government institutions and public offices. By restricting tobacco use at the state's administrative headquarters, the government seeks to reinforce the message that public workplaces should remain clean, healthy and free from tobacco consumption.

Officials and visitors to Lok Seva Bhawan will now be required to comply with the new restrictions. The government has indicated that violations will attract action under applicable laws and regulations.

The move marks another step in Odisha's ongoing campaign to reduce tobacco use, improve public health and promote cleaner public spaces across the state.

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