UK Moves on Tobacco Control...What Is India’s Direction?

The United Kingdom has passed a historic bill aimed at creating a smoke free society. The law bans cigarette sales to people born after December 31, 2008. This has triggered discussions on whether a similar law can be implemented in India.

However, tobacco consumption patterns in India and the UK are very different. In India, cigarette usage is relatively low, while products such as bidis, pan masala, and khaini are more widely consumed. At the same time, the tobacco industry generates major tax revenue and employment, leading experts to suggest that gradual restrictions would be more practical than an immediate ban.