Media Release

Mangaluru, Mar 13: Marking "No Smoking Day", the NSS unit 5 and unit 7 of Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce and Management (YIASCM), a constituent institute of Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) organised ‘Breathe Life’ – a No Smoking Day walkathon on March 11, Wednesday in the morning to raise awareness about the harmful effects of smoking and tobacco consumption.

The awareness walkathon began at YIASCM, Balmatta campus and proceeded through the city before concluding at the City Clock Tower, Hampankatta. The initiative was organised in collaboration with the Mangaluru City Police Commissionerate to promote a smoke-free and healthy lifestyle among the public.

Prof Jeevan Raj, principal (I/C), flagged off the walkathon and addressed the participants. He emphasised the vital role of youth in social awareness campaigns and urged students to actively contribute to building a tobacco-free society.

Dr Rathnakar Shetty, head of the Department of Computer Science, faculty members and more than 100 NSS volunteers participated enthusiastically in the walkathon, carrying awareness messages and encouraging the public to stay away from tobacco and smoking.

Following the walkathon, NSS volunteers staged an awareness street play at the City Clock Tower and in front of Town Hall, Hampankatta, depicting the health hazards caused by smoking and tobacco use. The performance drew public attention and effectively communicated the importance of adopting healthier lifestyle choices.

The programme was coordinated by Deepika, NSS programme officer – unit 5, and Shobith Kumar B, NSS programme officer – unit 7.

The initiative concluded with strong student participation and positive engagement from the public, reinforcing the message of a healthier, smoke-free community.