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.
Production houses and big studios are already fast-tracking projects pitched by pro-Hindutva players. Choking those who choose to remain outside these charmed circles is not a big deal.
The countries signed a memorandum for co-development of UNICORN masts in November 2024. India has been second Asian nation to have such an agreement with Tokyo, after Philippines.
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