CBSE schools to display tobacco-related warning messages

CBSE has made it mandatory for all its schools to put the warning messages related to consumption or sale of tobacco on the school notice boards. Those avoiding this action will be imposed a penalty of Rs. one lakh or six-month imprisonment.

The board has recommended the schools not to allow any institution to use brand name, logo or any other distinct feature connected with any tobacco products.

The whole efforts are aimed at making schools 'tobacco- free educational institutions'.

CBSE has said "The display boards may be put up at the entrance gate outside the boundary wall of schools, at the reception, cafeteria and other prominent places in the school peripheral ".

The latest circular is sent in continuation with the earlier one recommending the cbse affiliated schools to follow the guidelines on protection from exposure to tobacco in keeping with the ‘World Health Organisation’ guidelines.

These days some tobacco-promoting firms are finding some innovative ways to engage the school children, in response to which the CBSE has asked schools to ensure such events do not recur.