The Anti-Tobacco Forum has welcomed the government’s decision to ensure 85 per cent space for pictorial caution on tobacco products packets.
ATF convenor Vasanthkumar Mysoremath said in a release that it is a welcome step and will go a long way in fulfilling India’s international obligation under the UN/WHO sponsored Framework Convention on Tobacco Control protocol. The ATF cited findings of various countries to justify its demand for 85 per cent pictorial warning and said that when gory pictures and awareness messages have been exhibited on tobacco packets, there is a salutary psychological effect on the minds of smokers resulting in gradual reduction of consumption.
Mr. Vasanthkumar said the government must gradually reduce crop size, area under tobacco cultivation and effect an embargo on renewals of license in addition to increasing renewal license fee.
