16th January, 2026
The 40th edition of Tobacco Free Times was released during the Youth Conclave 2026, organised by the Global Strategy Alliance (GSA) in collaboration with the Resource Centre for Tobacco Control (RCTC), SIPHER, Vital Strategies, and the Department of Public Health, Panjab University, on 16 January 2026. The release was graced by distinguished dignitaries including Dr. Balbir Singh, Health Minister of Punjab, Prof. (Dr.) Sonu Goel, PGIMER, Dr. Rana J. Singh, Deputy Regional Director (South-East Asia), Vital Strategies, Ms. Opinder Preet Kaur, Director (Programs), GSA, Prof. (Dr.) Sonu Goel, PGIMER, Mr. Vivek Awasthi, Executive Director, UPVHA, Dr. Manoj Kumar, Chairperson, Centre for Public Health, PU, and Dr. Mira B. Aghi, Behaviour Scientist.
This edition focuses on youth-centred tobacco control, highlighting the critical role of young people in prevention, advocacy, digital engagement, and policy action. Drawing on national experiences and global best practices, it underscores youth leadership as a powerful driver for reducing initiation, countering industry influence, and strengthening community and system-level responses. The edition reinforces the importance of empowering youth as change agents to advance India’s tobacco endgame vision and build a sustainable, tobacco-free generation.
