Nagpur, May 31 — In a resounding show of unity against tobacco use, the Central India Doctors Association (CIDRA) Foundation successfully organized a large-scale Public Rally on World No Tobacco Day, Saturday, May 31, in collaboration with over 50 NGOs, hospitals, schools, and social groups across the city.
The rally, which ran from Awasthi Chowk, Jafar Nagar to Prime Nursing Home, Ahbab Colony, and back to its starting point, aimed to raise public awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco and addictive substances. Held between 4:30 pm and 6:30 pm, the event drew a diverse crowd including children, women, youth, and members from more than 50 organizations, all carrying eye-catching banners and posters that delivered a loud, clear anti-tobacco message.
The rally reached its high point at Awasthi Nagar Square, where participants engaged in a symbolic act — burning cigarettes and gutka packets — to demonstrate their collective commitment to a tobacco-free future.
Prominent doctors and community leaders, including Dr. Meraj Shaikh, Dr. Zubair Quazi, Dr kashif, Dr. Shizan pervez Dr shabahat yar khan and Dr. Sarfaraz Ahmad were present alongside representatives from top hospitals such as Critizone Hospitals, Prime Nursing Home, Synergy Hospitals, and Max Hospitals, all proudly partnering in this impactful initiative.
Dr. Meraj Shaikh and fellow CIDRA functionaries extended heartfelt thanks to all NGOs, social groups, professionals, and volunteers who joined the mission, emphasizing the importance of united community action to safeguard public health and well-being.
Participating organizations included: Sikh Welfare Forum, Fikr Foundation, Professional Solidarity Forum, CSRE, Iqra International School, Al Ameen, Steps/KGNPS School, IDA Nagpur, Govt Dental College, MSS, Youth Wing, Universal Multipurpose Society, Udaan Group, Indian Muslim Chamber of Commerce, The Policy Times Group, Nagpur First Group, Kartavya Foundation, Jamiat Ulema Nagpur District, Mission Padhe Hum Padhaye Hum, Tabligh Khidmat Multipurpose Foundation, Social Improvement Trust, Ayzal Foundation, Bahujan Vichar Manch, Tanzeem Muslim Navjavanane Jafar Nagar Nagpur, NSS Unit of Anjuman College of Engineering & Technology, Mitsuya-Kai Hayashi-Ha Shito-Ryu Karate-Do India, Rishi Foundation, Shelhsariya Foundation, NTCP Cell, Faizane Tajul Auliya Old Age Home, Uditi Foundation, JIH West & North West Units, and Muslim Friends Circle.
The program was skillfully anchored by Salman from Fikr Foundation, one of the key co-organizers. A pledge ceremony was held during the rally, where participants vowed to quit tobacco consumption and spread awareness within their circles.
With this successful event, CIDRA Foundation and its partners reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to building a healthier, tobacco-free Nagpur — setting an example of collective action for communities everywhere.
 Foundation successfully organized a large-scale Public Rally on World No Tobacco Day, Saturday, May 31, in collaboration with over 50 NGOs, hospitals, schools, and social groups across the city.){kind=link}