Statistics show that one person dies every eight seconds from tobacco use. When presented to a group of people, this fact is usually met with shock and disbelief. This reaction is to be expected.

Who would have ever thought that one of the leading causes of death in the world could be caused by tobacco, which is sad to say, but legal in most of the countries.

Many awareness programmes have been taking place but to no avail. At these programmes, teenagers are informed that the tobacco companies are targeting them as a replacement to smokers.

Reality Check has been organising series of workshops making the youth more aware of the harm tobacco is causing them.

The group has also worked together to brainstorm ideas for a statewide initiative.

Over the past year, students all across the world spread the word about Reality Check. Country chapters were formed, and area summits were held.

Recently, a select few of Reality Check members went to schools and communities to work on an initiative called ‘Chalk the Walk’. Through this initiative, students drew body outlines in the parking lots to represent the millions of people who die from tobacco use.

Presently, Reality Check has over 1,000 members, and the body is still growing. These students should be commended for their hard work and dedication to a worthy cause.

— Complied by Pragyan Sharma, Class XI, Kendriya Vidyalaya