####Awareness Programme on Screen-Time Impact and De-Addiction Held at Pacific Institute of Medical Sciences

Udaipur. The Pacific Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Udaipur, organized a special induction programme for newly admitted students on Saturday, featuring a thought-provoking skit and presentations on the ill effects of excessive screen time and substance abuse.

The event began with Jal Poojan and Jal Aarti performed by “Jal Mitra” Dr. P.C. Jain along with students. A short film titled “Aaj Nahi Toh Kal Jayega, Jal Bin Jeevan Jal Jayega” was screened, emphasizing the urgency of water conservation. Dr. Jain advised the students to adopt water-saving habits and to practice rooftop rainwater harvesting during the monsoon to help recharge groundwater levels. Students also tested the TDS levels of the water they brought, learning about standards for potable water.

A touching skit was then performed, highlighting how rising screen time is creating emotional distance within families. The play depicted a situation where grandchildren remain engrossed in mobile phones and dance, ignoring their grandmother’s cries of chest pain, leading to her death. The scene left a strong message about the importance of spending quality time with family. The skit featured performances by Manishika, Amish, Ankur, Aryan, Kashish, Harshita, Jiya and Sakshi.

Following this, Dr. P.C. Jain presented a “Fact File” showing that nearly 37 crore (370 million) people in India consume some form of intoxicant, and the number is rapidly increasing. Addressing future medical professionals, he explained the harmful effects and treatment approaches related to tobacco, alcohol, opium, brown sugar, cannabis, gutkha and other substances. Through an interactive session, he asked students who shed tears of joy when they got their medical college admission; they replied, “Our parents.” He then asked who would shed the most tears if they fell into addiction. Again the students answered, “Our parents.” This resonated deeply, leading students to pledge to stay away from addictions.

He also explained that substance abuse is far more harmful for young women due to differences in body structure and hormonal patterns, and can cause severe congenital deformities in future children — something no mother would want.

The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Shrinidhi. Principal Dr. Suresh Goyal urged that such informative programmes be conducted every six months. A vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Pranav Kumar and Dr. Shrinidhi. The event was conducted by Sonali Kukreja.