Health Ministry and its policy making exercise on tobacco
The Health Ministry has imposed higher taxes to deter cigarette smoking, it has recommended a ban on the sale of loose cigarettes. It is asking for three-quarters of every cigarette pack to be covered with health warnings. All these things look good while reading out in a press meet and looks like the ministry is taking some bold steps. But, I would say it's a misplaced priority and problem lies elsewhere. Health Ministry in UPA era We need to control tobacco consumption. Lets make a blanket rule that all public spaces should have dedicated smoking zone. Result : Police can catch you at any moment for smoking in public space and there are no smoking zone created in most of public spaces Health Ministry in NDA/Modi Era We need to control tobacco sales Lets ensure that loose cigarette are not sold Future Result : Display new board along with existing ones or put a new one stating Loose cigarette are not sold. Now, without getting into political drama and comm...