Chennai, May 2: PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the government to enact a historic law banning the sale and consumption of tobacco products for individuals born in 2009 or later. The aim is to create a ‘smoke-free generation’ in India.
In his letter to the Prime Minister and Union Health Minister JP Nadda, Anbumani highlighted the severe public health crisis caused by tobacco use. He argued that a generational ban could significantly reduce addiction and disease burdens across the country.
Citing global and national estimates, the PMK leader noted that approximately 267 million Indians currently consume tobacco in some form, making India one of the largest consumers worldwide. He also pointed out that tobacco-related diseases cause over 1.3 million deaths annually in the country, placing immense pressure on the healthcare system and economy.
Drawing comparisons with international efforts, Anbumani referenced the proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill in the United Kingdom, which aims to gradually raise the legal age for purchasing tobacco, effectively curbing smoking among the youth. He urged India to adopt a similar legislative framework tailored to its demographic and public health needs.
He emphasized that tobacco is a leading cause of cancer and non-communicable diseases in India, responsible for nearly 40 to 50 percent of cancer cases. He called for immediate decisive policy interventions.
Reflecting on his tenure as Union Health Minister from 2004 to 2009, Anbumani highlighted several anti-tobacco measures initiated during that time, including a nationwide ban on smoking in public places and mandatory health warnings on tobacco packaging. He noted that while these steps have significantly raised awareness, there is a pressing need for more robust and visionary policies.
Leave a Comment