Health Officials and Experts Convene to Address Responsible Alcohol Consumption in Haryana
Consumer VOICE in association with Citizen Awareness Group, Chandigarh hosted a roundtable discussion at Red Bishop on the 14th of January, 2025 for promoting responsible alcohol consumption in Haryana. The meeting brought together key stakeholders including representatives from various organisations such as the PGI, Chandigarh; IMA; Rotary Club, Panjab University, Gateway Consulting and other eminent medical professionals and NGOs.
Dr. Ratna Bharti, Executive Director, Haryana State Health Resource Centre, Haryana (HSHRC), who was the Chief Guest on the occasion, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “There is a pressing need to work towards prevention and the need to create public awareness campaigns on responsible consumption of alcohol. Also, it is important for several stakeholders including civil society organisations, the government and various institutions to work together to ensure the well-being of our citizens.” CMO, Panchkula Dr. Mukta Kumar and PMO, Dr. Rita Kalra also spoke on the occasion.
Discussions centered on addressing the rising per capita alcohol consumption particularly in Haryana. Participants examined various factors driving this trend, including changing demographics, improved living standards, higher disposable incomes, evolving spending habits, and the growing culture of social drinking.
A key concern highlighted during the discussion was the general lack of awareness among consumers regarding alcohol content in different beverages and proper measurement of intake. The participants emphasized the importance of developing comprehensive strategies to promote moderate consumption and better consumer education.
Surinder Verma, Chairman, Citizens Awareness Group, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “There is a pressing need to create awareness amongst consumers, particularly the youth, on responsible consumption of alcohol. Our focus must be on education and prevention to ensure the well-being of our citizens.”
The roundtable discussion marks an important step in developing a coordinated approach to address this public health concern while promoting responsible consumption practices among Haryana’s residents.
