From Leaders’ Desk on World No Tobacco Day
"India continues to face a major public health challenge with nearly 29% of adults consuming tobacco in some form, according to GATS. Beyond individual health risks, tobacco-related illnesses place a growing burden on families and the healthcare system. World No Tobacco Day is a reminder that awareness and behavioural change must go hand in hand. At ICCPL Foundation, we believe workplaces, institutions, and communities all have a crucial role in promoting healthier lifestyles through awareness initiatives, wellness programs, and youth engagement. A tobacco-free future requires collective responsibility and sustained public awareness.”
Ms. Ambika Saxena
CEO, ICCPL Foundation
"Smoking affects much more than just your lungs; it could very well have an impact on women’s hormonal and general well-being through the period of midlife. Women smokers are likely to experience menopause sooner than nonsmokers by one to two years, and they tend to have more intense menopausal symptoms like hot flushes, irritability, insomnia, osteoporosis, and heart problems. It is vital to note that as discussions about women’s health progress, quitting smoking should be considered an essential aspect of menopause and preventative medicine. On this year’s World No Tobacco Day, let us encourage women to make wise decisions regarding their lifestyles for better health."
Mr. Sanjith Shetty
Founder and CEO, Miror Therapeutics Private Limited
“For over three decades, Colgate’s Bright Smiles, Bright Futures® (BSBF) program has evolved from a health initiative into a nationwide movement focused on advancing oral wellness, preventive care, and healthier lifestyles for children across India. Guided by our vision of sparking a billion smiles, the program delivers a holistic and age-appropriate curriculum for children aged 6–15 years, covering oral hygiene, nutritional awareness, and tobacco-use prevention through its ‘Say No to Tobacco’ mission. By engaging children at a formative stage, BSBF® aims to instill lifelong healthy habits and empower young minds with the knowledge to make informed choices. We believe creating a tobacco-free and healthier society requires collective action from institutions, schools, workplaces, communities, and families alike. Through sustained awareness and education, we can help build a future generation that prioritizes wellness, prevention, and long-term community health.”
Ms. Shilpashree Muniswamappa
Director - ESG & Communications, Colgate-Palmolive India