EAC-PM paper finds sharp rise in rural and urban tobacco consumption between 2011-12 and 2023-24, with poorer households hit hardest even as public healthcare spending expands.
A noticeable effect of smoking is premature aging. Studies indicate that the skin biopsy of a 40-year-old heavy smoker can resemble that of a 70-year-old non-smoker.
New rules under Cigarettes & Other Tobacco Products Act will be notified on 31 May. Changes come after intra- & inter-ministerial deliberations, consultations with industry representatives.
WHO estimates that nearly 30 per cent of India's adult population is tobacco users and butts litter urban streets where general cleanliness standards are abysmally low.
Over the years, Phantom sweet cigarettes have been called out for promoting smoking in children and being very unhealthy due to the high sugar content.
Many smokers are struggling to get their daily dose of nicotine amid the lockdown. While some are grappling with withdrawal, others are using the chance to kick the butt.
Industry says manufacturers have 2-4 weeks of buffer stocks, but prolonged disruption could push up shortage risks, especially of consumables like IV and syringes.
French newspaper La Tribune earlier last week indicated that UAE withdrew from deal to fund EUR 3.5 billion. India is looking to order 114 new Rafales, which could include the F5.
China patiently invested capital, skill and technology in coal gasification. Unlike it, we won’t move from words to action. As crude prices decline, we lose interest.
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