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.
Beneath the uniform and the gallantry award was a man of rare humility. There was no trace of bravado in Colonel Sonam Wangchuk, no attempt to wear his achievements on his sleeve.
We now live in a world order that will keep shifting. India must use this window. This also means we remain disciplined enough not to be knee-jerked into reacting to what Pakistan sees as its moment in the sun.
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