-Panchkula, 14th January 2025: Today, a roundtable discussion focusing on responsible alcohol consumption in the state of Haryana was organised by Citizens Awareness Group with Consumer Voice. Representatives from organisations like PGI, Chandigarh; IMA; Rotary Club, Panjab University,Gateway Consulting and other prominent doctors and NGOs were part of the gathering.
While Dr. Ratna Bharti, Executive Director, Haryana State Health Resource Centre, Haryana (HSHRC), who was the Chief Guest on the occasion said that there is an urgent need to work towards prevention and need to run public awareness campaigns on responsible consumption of alcohol. Furthermore, it is also vital that multiple stakeholders such as civil society organisations, government and institutions collectively protect the interests of people.” CMO, Panchkula Dr Mukta Kumar and PMO, Dr Rita Kalra also spoke on the occasion.
It is learnt that lowering the per capita alcohol consumption in certain states, particularly Haryana, dominated the discussions. Participants studied the factors contributing to this phenomenon, such as shifting demographics, changing living standards, increased disposable income, changing spending patterns, and the increasing trend of social drinking.
One of the major concerns raised in the discussion was the widespread ignorance of alcohol content in most beverages and measuring it properly among consumers. The participants emphasized on the need for developing holistic strategies to promote moderate consumption as well as better consumer education.
Surinder Verma, Chairman, Citizens Awareness Group “There is an immediate need to generate awareness among the consumers especially youth regarding responsible use of alcohol. We must focus on education and prevention to protect our citizens,” he said.
The roundtable discussion represents a significant step in formulating a coordinated response to this public health issue, and fostering responsible consumption behaviours among the people of Rajasthan.
