Two Decades of Dedication: Imran Ali's Fight Against Substance Abuse in Odisha
For nearly twenty years, social worker Mohammad Imran Ali, aged 39, has been at the forefront of efforts to combat substance abuse and tobacco consumption in Bhubaneswar and throughout Odisha. His work encompasses de-addiction awareness, anti-tobacco campaigns, and extensive counselling, with a strong emphasis on community-based outreach programs that have touched countless lives across the state.
From Student Activist to PhD Leader
A native of Quazi Sahi in Bhadrak district, Imran's journey began in 2006 while he was pursuing his postgraduate studies in social work. Witnessing adolescents in slum areas consuming tobacco and nicotine products firsthand, he felt compelled to take action. "I found adolescents in slum areas consuming tobacco and nicotine products. I started creating awareness among the people, including adolescents," he recalls. This initial spark evolved into a lifelong mission.
Armed with a PhD in social work, Imran has since led comprehensive anti-tobacco and anti-drug campaigns through community meetings and educational programs in schools, colleges, and various institutions. His outreach has successfully reached thousands of people, making a tangible impact on public health awareness in the region.
Legal Advocacy and Ongoing Challenges
Imran's commitment deepened when he learned about the direct link between tobacco consumption and cancer. "When I knew that consuming tobacco products caused cancer, I took the anti-tobacco campaign seriously," he explains. In 2012, his efforts culminated in a petition filed in the Orissa High Court, urging a statewide ban on tobacco products. This advocacy contributed to the Odisha government's ban on the manufacturing and sale of tobacco and nicotine products in 2013.
However, Imran notes that the initial ban faced implementation challenges. "The ban did not work," he states candidly. While he acknowledges the government's recent move to ban all chewable products containing tobacco and nicotine as a positive step, he emphasizes that proper implementation is crucial. "This is a good step but needs proper implementation of the ban. I will continue creating awareness until people stop consuming tobacco and nicotine products," he affirms, highlighting his unwavering dedication to the cause.
Innovative Outreach and Inclusive Materials
Imran's approach is marked by innovation and inclusivity. He has produced a wide range of awareness materials in accessible formats, including:
- Informative booklets on tobacco and drug abuse
- A Braille edition for visually-impaired readers
- Sign language videos for the hearing impaired
His community radio series on tobacco-free childhood gained national recognition by being featured in the Limca Book of Records, showcasing the reach and effectiveness of his methods.
Organizational Impact and Training Initiatives
As the co-founder of 'Salaam Jeevan', Imran provides essential counselling and support services for individuals grappling with substance dependence. His expertise is widely sought after; he is frequently invited to conduct capacity-building programmes on substance-abuse prevention.
His training initiatives extend to youth groups associated with:
- National Service Scheme (NSS)
- Red Cross
- Bharat Scouts and Guides
- MY BHARAT
Additionally, he serves as a resource person at the Biju Patnaik State Police Academy, where he educates on the prevention of substance abuse, further amplifying his impact.
Grassroots Campaigns and Recognition
Imran's initiatives, such as 'Mission Answer to Cancer' and 'Nisha Mukta Shaishaba', aim to highlight the long-term health and social consequences of addiction, with a particular focus on children and adolescents. Known for his participatory outreach, he employs engaging methods like songs, storytelling, and group activities in his sessions. His fieldwork often involves traveling to remote villages on a motorcycle, ensuring his message reaches even the most underserved communities.
His relentless efforts have earned him numerous accolades, including:
- State-level NSS award
- State Youth Award
- Nagar Bandhu Samman
These honours from the Odisha government are complemented by recognition from over 40 civil society organisations for his outstanding work in addiction prevention and social service.
