Mothers Against Vaping, a unified coalition of concerned mothers fighting against the proliferation of New-Age Tobacco Devices like e-cigarettes, vapes, and other electronic nicotine delivery systems among Indian children and youth, made an emotional announcement on Tuesday. They revealed that Bhaichung Bhutia, revered as the torchbearer of Indian football, will be lending his support to their crucial cause.
Bhaichung Bhutia's endorsement brings significant weight to the mission of Mothers Against Vaping. His involvement is expected to magnify the impact of their cause, shining a brighter spotlight on the growing problem of new-age tobacco device usage among the youth in the country. This partnership aims to raise awareness, gather support, and foster a collective effort to safeguard the well-being of the younger generation from the dangers posed by these devices.
Speaking about the urgent need to address the menace of vaping and e-cigarettes among children, Bhaichung Bhutia expressed his concern, saying, ¡°As someone who has been working with children to nurture future football talents, it deeply saddens me to see them falling prey to harmful habits like vaping and e-cigarettes.¡±
¡°At an age when our children should be surrounded by environments that nurture their dreams and aspirations, it is disheartening to witness the havoc that these new-age tobacco devices are wreaking on their health and lives. The efforts of Mothers Against Vaping in spreading awareness about this issue are truly commendable, and I wholeheartedly extend my support to them. It is crucial that we secure the well-being and future of our younger generation,¡± he added emotionally.
Mothers Against Vaping highlighted the escalating addiction among children to new-age tobacco devices, fueled by the aggressive marketing strategies of big tobacco companies. These companies use various tactics, such as social media advertising and appealing flavors, to lure children into using these harmful products. This concerning trend poses a serious risk of addiction, potentially leading users down a dangerous path to more harmful substances.
Despite the ban imposed by the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarette Act (PECA) 2019, e-cigarettes and similar devices continue to proliferate, posing a grave threat to children and youth. The usage of vaping and e-cigarette devices has been linked to various adverse effects, including extensive lung damage and environmental harm.
Mothers Against Vaping is actively working to raise awareness about the dangers of new-age tobacco devices and is seeking support from influential figures, parents, educators, influencers, and policymakers. Their ultimate goal is to create an environment where these devices are excluded from society, ensuring they are entirely out of reach for children and youngsters, thus safeguarding their health and future.