International Mountain Day

International Mountain Day

Did you know that mountains cover 27 percent of the total land surface? 

I bet most of you didn’t have any idea about the fact I’ve mentioned above. Yes, it's true mountains cover a major part of our earth’s surface but in a good way. Mountains are major source of sustainable economic growth; They are major source of elements like food,freshwater and energy that will be scarce in next few decades.  So, to highlight the importance of mountain the United Nation General Assembly assigned 11th December as International Mountain Day. The day commemorates mountain life and tries to highlight its importance. For a greater sustainable future mountain development is a must. But, if we turn our head around and look we can obviously notice that majority of mountain regions are grasped by poverty.

This year UN focuses on mountain farming which is considered as a major occupation in upper regions. For most of them it is a family tradition, and it’s been going on from generations. In context of today’s world there is a greater scope in mountain farming apart from food cultivation. Mountain farming attracts tourism and their vivid handicraft goods can portray the traditional of the people residing on those region. For Instance, you can check out the array of Lokta Paper products available in Pen Boutique. In foothills of Himalayas, Nepalese people have been making lokta for papers from lokta shrubs. 

Lokta grows in the shade of higher plants – in high elevation above 6500 feet. These shrubs go largely in suburb areas of the country where jobs are scarce and paper making is the only option for the villagers. Lokta paper is naturally resistant to insects and bacteria, and is renowned for its texture, durability and ability to last for hundreds of years. 

I have piled an array of products that are prepared by using 100% genuine lokta papers. 

• Monk Paper Lokta Hemp Fiber Lokta Stationery Writing Set

• Monk Paper Pink Hearts Lokta Trekker Journal

• Monk Paper Tangerine A4 Lokta Sketch Pad

• Monk Paper Butter Chocolate Lokta Trekker Journal

• Monk Paper Butter Cranberry Lokta Trekker Journal

• Monk Paper Charcoal Lokta Quotation Journal

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International Anti-Corruption Day

International Anti-Corruption Day

“The fight for justice against corruption is never easy. It never has been and never will be. It exacts a toll on our self, our families, our friends, and especially our children. In the end, I believe, as in my case, the price we pay is well worth holding on to our dignity.” - Frank Serpico

No matter where you reside, corruption is a strong phenomenon that sucks life out of social, political and economic factors. Corruption sabotages democratic firms, hinders economic and social development and moreover promotes government instability.  Over the world, corruption is a major issue that’s hard to deal with and it’s distorting everything. When it comes to corruption, neither society nor country is immune. If we look upon the situation of underdeveloped and developing countries we can clearly assume that corruption is one of the main factors that is hindering their path of progress. So, it’s essential for each and every one of us to unite and fight against this global disease and raise a voice to eradicate it. 

Corruption mainly affects the poor and middle class people. In many countries corruption acts as a core that ignites the flames of poor governance, political instability and poor economic growth. If you dig in deeper you will find evidences that indicate that corruption is a major cause that affects long-term economic growth. 

To fight against corruption UN initiated their first step in the year 2004 by introducing the first International Anti-Corruption Day. Since then every year this day is conducted every year to develop combat plans against corruption. Today, Anti-Corruption provides platform to all government bodies, civil society, general public and medias to raise their voices to eliminate this global problem. 

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World Day for Persons with Disabilities

World Day for Persons with Disabilities

• There are more than 1 billion people in the world who have certain kind of physical disability.

• Majority of disabled people fall into the criteria of social discrimination. 

• In some countries disable people are still being deprived of their basic rights including education and political participation.

Every year on 3rd of December World Day for Persons with Disabilities is celebrated to address the rights of people with disabilities. The day is devoted towards disabled people and primarily looks after their humanitarian needs. 

We have indeed stepped into a new and modern world, we have innovative technologies and our lifestyle has seen a drastic change. It’s obvious that we live in proud country where human rights have an important role, but there are places in the world where discrimination is still practiced. Living a life grasped by a disability can be challenging, but in order to boost their self-esteem we have to constantly promote their human rights and notify them that they are no different than us. 

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World AIDS Day: Spread the Word of Prevention

World Aids Day

Every year on 1st of December World Aids Day is celebrated throughout the world to highlight the importance of eradicating a deadly disease commonly known to us as HIV/AIDS. If we turn our head around then we can obviously notice that the world has taken a huge leap in medical field compared to past decade, but in the context of HIV/AIDS there is still a lot to be done. 

Till date there are thousands of people in U.S. who are in grasp of this deadly disease. Amongst them less than 25 percent of the total affected population reach their treatment and the rest have to live with it due to number of barriers. Conclusively, this has brought out negative vibes and has left many with a bias state of mind. The main solution for this problem is to work together and built a strong community that constantly focuses on eliminating this global phenomenon. Here are few things that you can do to commemorate this day.

• Look for the organizations that are planning World AIDS Day programs and actively participate on those events. 
• Conduct community awareness programs and convey the importance of eradicating this deadly disease. 
• Target schools and colleges, and conduct programs to raise awareness. Also highlight the importance of safe sex. 

I have just listed few suggestions, there are many more things that you can do to highlight the importance of this day. Remember, this is an important issue and avoiding it, just might not be the right thing to do. So, gather your friends and families, and unite to fight against HIV/AIDS. 

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Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day

Happy Thanksgiving Day everyone!!!

The official day for giving thanks has arrived and we would like to wish everyone a very warm Thanksgiving Day. It’s obviously a very special day for our fellow Americans; this is the particular day of the year when we spare a day out from our busy schedule specially for giving thanks. 

I think I’m a bit early, but it’s always best to prepare before the occasion arrives at your front door. Yes, we are on the second week of November and the Thanksgiving Day lies on the 4th Thursday of the month, which means we might have to wait a while. On this very day we express our gratitude to the god and have a great moment with our friends and families. We share our moments of joys, have a great feast and recall our greatest moments taking us back to our nostalgic past. 

I think most of us we have a tight schedule on this particular day, and may spare a very little time to thank god. But folks remember that this day was designated to god and our thanksgiving should primarily be directed in his direction. However, the day also provides us an opportunity to express our gratitude to special people who have a great role in enhancing our life. So, this year put a stop to your daily schedule and spare some time to say thank you to God and your loved ones who have made your life absolutely beautiful.  

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World Day to Eliminate Violence on Women

World Day to Eliminate Violence on Women 

Though our world has stepped into the era of feminism, women violence is still practiced in various parts of globe. This is a global phenomenon and it’s crucial to take adequate steps to eliminate this problem. 

Did you know?

• One out of four women is sexually abused during their pregnancy period.

• More than 600 million women reside in a country where domestic violence is not considered as a crime.

• Over 60 million girls worldwide become a victim of child marriage. 

• Approximately 800 thousand girls per year become victim of trafficking. 

In the year 1999, UN General Assembly announced 25th November as a day to eradicate women violence. The day symbolizes a change and inspires people to actively participate in events to eliminate such activities. Till date more than 35% of the total women are facing domestic violence, and it will continue to rise until every one of us is willing to take adequate actions. Start the initiation, start from small, and approach your neighbors, friends, local vendors, gas station and built a strong force to fight against this global problem. 

Every year, thousands of programs are conducted throughout the world to address this problem. Join the fight because violence against women is inevitable. 

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Universal Children's Day

 As we have entered into a digital age, the world has been much technically diverse which consequently has robbed all our humanitarian emotions. It is important to adapt into this modern world but we must also look after things that makes us human. And one of the most important aspects is protecting and promoting children’s right. 

Introduced in 1954, every year Universal Children’s Day is celebrated on 20^th November to promote children’s right. The day highlights the importance of children’s right and moreover educates people about its importance. As Americans, we must consider ourselves lucky as we live in a country where rights are considered as a vital element. But if we dig in deeper and look into other parts of the world, there are lots of children who are even deprived of their basic rights.  

Universal Children’s Day looks after such issues and inspires everyone to promote children’s right. Millions of children across the globe fall in the criteria of exploitation, such as sexual abuse, domestic violence and corporal violence which is not acceptable in this modern era. Growing up with such experiences can result to harsh consequences and can hinder their physiological and physical development. So, move your steps forth for change and inspire a better future. Remember the initiation always starts from you, and later it grows into a family and society.

Inspire others, be the change!!! 

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World Science Day

World Science day has a very special importance, and plays a vital role to bridge the gap between science and society. The day was first introduced in 2001, and since then every year it is celebrated to reflect the value of science. 

We live in a digital age, where science plays a vital role in enhancing our daily life. With the increasing demand for technology, it’s a must to inspire youths and initiate them towards a more reliable and sustainable future. It’s clear that we have limited source of energy, and this is a fact that we can’t deny. And with the abundantly growing technical gadgets that requires plenty of energy; it will be hard for upcoming generations to cultivate the sources that we have completely drenched upon.    

According to UNESCO this year’s theme is based on “Science for a Sustainable Future”. Different activities will be conducted throughout the world to support and promote this theme. Here are few things that you can do to commemorate this day. 

•  Create awareness amongst people and raise awareness on the resources that are on the edge of extinction. 
•  Highlight the importance of sustainable future and highlight the techniques.
• Convey the role of science in building a sustainable future.
• Teach the younger generation to build a sustainable future, because it’s never too late to start. 

If you have a close friend, colleague or a family member who has an affinity for science here are few gift ideas from Pen Boutique. 

Fisher Space Pens

Designed exclusively for Astronauts, fisher pens are excellent writing instruments for everyday use. The pen features a sleek and slender profile complimented by a pressurized ink refill that works exceptionally well no matter what the condition. And for all the science guys, this pen just might be the right solution. It doesn’t whether you’re working on a cold icy climate or are performing an underwater research. The pen will work exceptionally wee and prove itself as an ideal working companion. 

Visconti Homo sapiens 

Visconti Homo sapiens is a perfect pen for all science enthusiasts. The pen features a sophisticated design that’s crafted from lava of Mount Etna. The body of the pen is quite dry as the material used is quite hydroscopic, and will absorb a very minimal amount of moisture. Just imagine how cool it will be to write with a Visconti that exhibits a unique appearance and a distinct design perfected to compliment your writing. Available in fountain, Rollerball and ballpoint. 

Retro 51 Tornado Deluxe pens - Albert

Definitely this is a writing instrument designed to pay tribute to the one and only Albert Einstein. The pen features a tapered barrel which exhibits Albert Einstein’s favorite equations including the E=MC2. And frankly speaking, who wouldn’t love a pen that flaunts an image of the great Einstein.

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World Day for Poverty Eradication: Stand Together and Build a Sustainable Future

World Day for Poverty Eradication

"On this day we recommit to think, decide and act together against extreme poverty -- and plan for a world where no-one is left behind. Our aim must be prosperity for all, not just a few." - Ban Ki-moon

Every year on 17^th October World Day for Poverty Eradication is celebrated throughout the world to commemorate the people who are grasped by the likes of poverty. First recognized in 1992, the day inspires people to take adequate steps to eliminate poverty and join various programs related to the event. Besides that, the day also acknowledges us with the lifestyle of people who fall under the line of poverty.

Currently, there are millions of people who fall under the line of poverty. These people are living a life being deprived of their basic rights, and are facing the darker side of life. But amongst them there are many who are willing to use their expertise to escape from the likes of poverty.

This year the day primarily focuses on building a sustainable future by eliminating poverty and discrimination. For this, we constantly need to push people living in poverty to actively participate in social programs related to poverty eradication. By doing so, they can learn more about communities, lifestyles, human rights and moreover engage themselves towards a better and sustainable future.

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Patriot Day

Patriot Day

The disastrous event of 9-11 is something that left a deep scar of sorrow in the hearts of all our Fellow Americans. On, the day four jets were hijacked and crashed into the World Trade Tower and Pentagon in Arlington resulting death of more than 2900 American citizens. Amongst the four jets one was directed towards Washington DC but due to the efforts of brave passenger the plane crashed into a nearby field in Pennsylvania.

Each year to commemorate the victims of the catastrophic terrorist attack Patriot Day is celebrated. The day honors all the lost lives, and pays a tribute by incorporating various activities. Here are lists of activities that are conducted all across the country on this following date.

• At 8:46 a.m. a moment of silence is held all across the country to commemorate all who lost their life in the event.
• American flag is flown half way down in the whole America and across the borders.
• The day honors the brave 411 rescuers who lost their lives trying to save others who were trapped in these buildings.

The inhuman terrorist attack brought a deep grief which cannot be expressed in a small set of words. Though time healed our wounds to a certain extent, we can never forget the heart breaking tragedies that the day brought with it. So, let’s pray for peace in this Patriot Day and remember all who demised in 9/11/2001.
 

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Women’s Equality Day

Pen Boutique would like to wish everyone a very happy Women’s Equality Day.

26th August marks a special day that initialized a great movement for women residing in U.S. The day commemorates 1920’s passage of 19th amendment, which granted women the right to vote. This year the day represents the 96th anniversary of the glorious event.  After years of struggle and advocacy women were finally allowed to vote, the movement is still recognized as one of the most inspiring event that uplifted the status of women in the society.

The movement begun in the year 1848 at the world’s first women’s right convention, and after more than seven decades of hard work and struggle women finally secured their voting rights. The day doesn't only represent the glorious event, but also inspires equality. Though, we live in a free country where human right is highly acknowledged still there are other places in the world where women are highly dominated and deprived of their basic human rights. Let’s take an initiation this year to change the world, every simple step counts, do every little thing you can and try to make the world a better place to live for everyone.

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World Humanitarian Day

Across the globe, humanitarian activity each day is saving a life.

19th August marks the World Humanitarian Day; the day commemorates the commitment of people involved in various social organizations to uplift the lifestyle of people less fortunate than them. On this day, related events takes place all across the world to inspire and motivate people to involve in humanitarian activities. This day was first recognized in the year 2009, since then every year UN introduces a certain theme designed to celebrate this day in a unique way.

On 19th August 2015, UN will recognize the people who have constantly pushed themselves tirelessly to ensure the wellbeing of others. UN requests you to participate in the event by sharing the image of such people you know on your social media platforms by using #Sharehumanity. For Instance, take the example of  Maseray Kamara - a brave Ebola survivor who is now constantly initiating his steps to ensure the dignified burial of people who died of this deadly disease.

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International Youth Day

International Youth Day

12th August 2015 marks the fifteenth anniversary of the International Youth Day. This day commemorates the value of youth and encourages their engagement in various fields. Youths are the backbone of every society without their active involvement the sustainable development is quite impossible. This day is celebrated each year in order to draw attention of the youths worldwide towards inspiring change.

The 2015 International Youth campaign targets motivation of youths across the world to actively engage in civic sectors. If you turn our head and look at the world we will acknowledge that the opportunities for youths to engage in social and political sectors are significantly low. Youths are enthusiastic and can bring a big change in the society if they are willing to make the contribution. However, the youths today are less likely to make contributions as a citizen than those in early generation. Hence, the civic bodies located in any society must seek out ways to encourage the active participation of youths in civic sector, people engaged in this field from an early age are more likely to involve in civic activities in the days to come.

 Pen boutique family wishes a very happy youth day to each and every youth out there.

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In honor of Left Handers Day – August 13th

In honor of Left Handers Day

Here are some interesting facts about people who have a dominant left hand. Left-handed people make up about 10-12% of the population, but they live in a right handed world. Most gadgets, office supplies, cooking supplies, and various other objects are catered for the right handed population which must be frustrating to say the least.

Tom Cruise, Whoopi Goldberg, Paul McCartney, Oprah Winfrey, Justin Bieber, Celine Dion, Jennifer Lawrence, Brad Pitt, and Angelina Jolie all have dominant left hands. Many deceased celebrities, like Marilyn Monroe, Kurt Cobain, and Jimi Hendrix were left-handed as well. Maybe being left handed is the secret to stardom!

Recently St. Lawrence University conducted IQ tests among right and left handed people. The tests results concluded that there were more left handed people with IQs over 140 than those individuals with dominant right hands. To prove it, Albert Einstein, Charles Darwin, Benjamin Franklin, and Isaac Newton were lefties!

Research has shown that left handed people are typically more artistically inclined. There is evidence that lefties are better at divergent thinking, and a survey of over 2,000 left handed people showed that the majority of lefties were drawn to careers in art and music.

With that being said, Lamy makes a left-handed nib that will fit most of their fountain pens. Some of the lines that will house these nibs are Safari, Al-star, CP1, Studio, Accent, Scala, Logos, as well as others. The nibs are available in silver or black stainless steel. Allowing a left-handed person to exercise their artistic or general writing needs without having to worry about the right handed world!

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Happy World Friendship Day

Happy Friendship Day

Finally the moment has arrived, a perfect day to express our gratitude to our beloved friends. So, are you planning to rejoice all your memories with your friends by reliving all your cherished moments? If yes then there cannot be a better day than this to get enclosure with your past. Yes, I know that a simple hug is enough to convey our message of love to them but wouldn’t it be nice if we can present a special gift on behalf of the occasion.  This year rather than exchanging friendship bands lets embrace this day by gifting something special to our closest friends.

Here are some fascinating gift ideas from Pen Boutique.

Retro51 Disney Vintage Mickey Deluxe Whoopee Party Ballpoint Pen
This pen is clearly a perfect gift for the special friend with whom you have shared your best childhood days. This pen will definitely take you guys back to the nostalgic past when you used to watch Disney show together.

Sheaffer Prelude Signature Rollerball Pen
Sheaffer Prelude Signature Rollerball Pen is definitely an ideal gift for your friend. This pen flaunts a magnificent look comprising of a clean-cut classic design in a wide range of metal finishes.

PM Craftsman Elephant Bookends
Is your friend a book fanatic? Then the PM Craftsman Elephant Bookends will be a perfect gift. Each of these elephants is crafted perfectly portraying every single detail that seems to bring these elegant pieces to life.

Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire Gold Onyx Key Ring
Looking to raise your bars to a whole new level by gifting something amusing to your friend then go for the Montblanc Meisterstück Solitaire Gold Onyx Key Ring. These key rings flaunt a dashing look comprising of style and class. Believe me your friend will just love it.

Note: For prices please visit our website www.penboutique.com

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Happy Parent’s Day

Every year on 26th of July Parent’s Day is celebrated throughout the world to honor every single parent on behalf of their efforts to make their kids a better person. Parents are our roots who have nurtured us with everything as well as cherished our dreams by sacrificing their own. Let’s face the fact, parents are the most important people in our lives. They act as a torch and light the path for us towards a better and secured future. Thus, Parents Day is part of the year when we get a chance to compliment our parents for all their sacrifice and moreover this is the day when we express our gratitude towards them.

How often do we gift a special gift to our parents? Probably twice a year but a fact that we should acknowledge is that a small effort from us can bring an immense amount of joy to them. So, on this year’s Parent’s Day present them something special I assure you it will bring out the lost smile on their faces that you’ve been longing to see for a long time. I know that no special gift can portray the picture of your parents that you pasted in your heart. But some gifts can actually convey the message that you’ve treasured in yourself.

Here are some gift ideas from Pen Boutique.

Cross Botanica Black Primrose Ballpoint Pen
The elegant look of this pen speaks it all. This pen comprises of a sophisticated design printed over an ivory lacquer base and a hefty body that ensures a smooth writing experience. Overall this pen would be a perfect gift to amuse your parents.

Monk Paper Charcoal Lokta Quotation Journal
This is an ideal gift for every occasion. Monk Paper Charcoal Lokta Quotation Journal comprises of a beautiful cover which homes 48 pages of Lokta paper. Believe me your parents will love it.

Hampton-Haddon Mini Gimbel Clock
Hampton-Haddon Mini Gimbel Clock a perfect gift that will fit in your budget. This clock will be an ideal desk accessory and always remind your parents of you whenever they roll their eye on it.

Kalifano 4" Marine Blue World In Silver Hand
Are you looking for an ideal gift which will act as a token of love and express your gratitude towards your Parents? Then the Kalifano 4" Marine Blue World in Silver Hand will be a thoughtful and moreover a meaningful gift. This product features a striking look flaunting a sturdy design and vivid artistry which can convey the message that how they acted as a helping hand to build your world.

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Nelson Mandela Day

We live in a cruel and selfish world, where most tend to have everything for themselves. But there are few people who have initiated their steps towards humanity with a vision to make our world a better place to live. Amongst them Nelson Mandela is one of the reputed personality who fought against racism for more than six decades. On behalf of his contributions every year on 18th June Nelson Mandela Day is celebrated to honor his good deeds and sacrifices.  

This day was first celebrated by the United Nations in the year 2010 on the grand occasion of his birthday to inspire people through Mandela’s teachings. Nelson Mandela is considered as one of the most influential leaders of all time who inspired equality and change. For many Mandela is a symbol who lit the torch of justice against racism and inequality. Moreover Mandela Day not only celebrates his life and legacy, it also inspires everyone to embrace Mandela’s values and start initiating their steps towards humanity.

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Independence Day – 4th July

               The importance of Independence Day cannot be conveyed in words, the declaration of democracy was a glorious moment for each and every American. Till this date the glorious event that took place in 4^th July 1776 carries a promising faith of what became a new independent America. This day reflects a great significance to all fellow Americans as it’s the day when United Stated claimed its independence from the palms of England by signing the declaration of independence.

            

              Every year Independence Day is celebrated with immense joy by setting aside the hustle and bustle of regular life and reliving this day with pride and glory. As per the occasion a number of events take place all across the country to express the joy of freedom. Most tend to celebrate this federal holiday outdoors attending various carnivals and picnic with family and friends while others aim to hear the speech conveyed by the politicians who are very less likely to introduce themselves in public on a normal day. At the end of the day fireworks all across the country glitters up the sky with the sparks of freedom.  This year Pen Boutique is glad to wish each and every fellow Americans a very happy Independence Day.  

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International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

Though UN has implemented various actions to repel the trafficking of illicit drugs, more and more amount of drugs is still spilling over the border.

- Around 200 million people around the world still use illicit drugs
- The production farm of opium increased by 36% in 2014
- The death toll due to abuse of illicit drug has risen to 183000 in the previous year


Despite the consequences, people still don’t back off from the illicit abuse and trafficking of drugs. Over the years the death tolls due to drug abuse has been significantly increasing. Not only has illicit drug been a major reason for premature death but also it has wasted the productive years of many who have fallen under its trap. Though United Nation Office on Drugs and Crime have taken various steps to minimize the abuse of illicit drugs, still  rough report states  that 0.6 percent of the total population falls under the criteria of drug abuse. Despite of government bodies around the world taking necessary steps to minimize drug trafficking and abuse, the issue seems to remain constant. One of its main reasons is the globalization of chemical trade which consequently has diverted the use of chemicals from legal to illegal.

This year, on 26th of June, International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking let’s work towards making our world a drug abuse-free planet. Let’s create a better world.

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World No Tobacco Day

Did you know? 

- Every second one person dies from a tobacco-related disease.
- In the United States, over 20% of all deaths are from tobacco.
- Tobacco smoke contains more than 4,000 chemical.
- In the 20th century 100 million deaths were caused by tobacco. In the 21st century tobacco-related death has reached an estimated 1 billion.

Despite all the death by tobacco consumption, the tobacco industry is flourishing every single day. In 2010 alone the revenue earned by the tobacco industry was $664 billion. This is more than the GDP of all but 18 nations in the world. But what is worst that trade of tobacco products is the illicit trading that doesn’t only raise concern on health, but also economy, legislations, governance and corruption. According to various studies, the illicit tobacco trade market accounts for around one in every 10 cigarettes consumed globally. And it is not just the economic threat such trade possess that should concern us. The reason why we should be fighting illicit trade of tobacco product has to do with the fact that such products hook young people into tobacco use because they are cheaper. The illegal tobacco trade robs the government from the tax revenue that could have been used in public service and education. So, while there is a lot of wrong in consumption and production of tobacco itself, we should also be worried about the harms that illegal trade of tobacco causes.

Hence, this World No Tobacco Day, 31 May 2015 WHO (World Health Organization) and partners are “calling on countries to work together to end the illicit trade of tobacco products.” Join in the fight and make a difference.

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