On account of World No Tobacco Day, and as part of the nationwide initiative “Serve BRICS 2026: Volunteering for Better Tomorrow”, undertaken in accordance with the communication from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and with the support of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS), Karnataka, a guest lecture on tobacco awareness was organized at Bhavaprakasha Hall, SDM College of Ayurveda Hospital and Research Centre, Udupi, on June 3, 2026.

The programme was jointly organized by the Department of Postgraduate Studies in Agada Tantra, NSS Unit of Community Services, and the Tobacco Cessation Centre of the institution. The programme was organized under the support and guidance of the Principal Dr Mamatha KV

Dr. Shankar M. Bakkanavar, Professor and Head, Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, KMC Manipal, delivered guest lecture on the topic “A Puff of Pleasure: A Lifetime of Damage.” Through his informative presentation, he highlighted the harmful effects of tobacco consumption and emphasized the importance of prevention, awareness, and cessation.

Dr. Vidyalakshmi k, Dean, Community Services, welcomed the gathering. Dr. Chaitra Hebbar Professor and HOD Department of PG Studies in Agada Tantra proposed the vote of thanks.

An introduction to the institution’s Tobacco Cessation Centre was provided by Dr. Vijay Neglur, Dean, Tobacco Cessation Centre, who explained the services offered for tobacco users seeking assistance to quit the habit.

Dr. Vijayendra G. Bhat, Professor and Head, Department of Manasa Roga, briefed the audience about the rehabilitation and counselling services available for tobacco addicts at the institution.

The NSS pledge taking was dictated by Dr. Srinidhi Dhanya, NSS Programme Officer.

Dr Shrikant P, dean PG and PhD studies presided the session. Dr Rashmi NR, Assistant Professor and NSS Community services member and Dr Kavya II PG Scholar, Dept of PG studies in Agada Tantra coordinated the whole program. Miss Anam Husna S Attar, III BAMS scholar compered the session. The programme was attended by undergraduate students, postgraduate scholars, and faculty members.