The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has warned schools not to take sponsorships from the companies which deal with tobacco business. This warning has been sent because many schools have allegedly involved tobacco companies or their subsidiaries, in school events for sponsorships.
Sadhana Parashar, Board director, wrote to the school saying “it has come to the notice of the Board that some tobacco promoting firms are finding some innovative ways to be involved with the school children. It is, therefore, strongly advised that no school affiliated to CBSE is permitted to allow its students to participate in the events sponsored by any firm or a subsidiary of a firm which promotes the use of tobacco in any form. Schools/students should not accept any prize or scholarship instituted by a tobacco promoting firm. It is recommended that schools should not allow any institution using brand name, emblem, trademark, logo or trade insignia or any other distinct feature directly/indirectly connected with tobacco products to be associated with students”.
According to sources, gutka or tobacco companies are involved with various NGOs that work with schools or have investment in ‘back-to-school’ products like bags, pens, books etc. Such companies sponsor school sports, debates etc, and though the logo of a tobacco product may never be featured on campus, but the group’s name is mentioned. CBSE is against this because even indirect promotion of brands linked with tobacco production or marketing is harmful for the kids.
