Gutkha can well be defined as a devil in disguise. Promoted as a mouth freshener, this betel nuts and tobacco preparation is designed to release a chemical reaction that makes it an addictive proposition. However, most consumers believe that the blended spices and seasonings do not make it as a harmful product!

But, the truth remains that gutkha; just as any other tobacco product is very addictive and injurious to health. Gutkha has been proved to be carcinogenic,

The Effects if Gutkha

• Gutkha leads to Oral sub-mucous fibrosis (SMF), a pre-cancerous disease that is a first step to cancer. This has increased 20 to 30 times across the country. It also leads to throat, esophageal cancers.


• Oral cancers, predominantly squamous cell carcinomas of the lip, mouth, tongue, and pharynx


• Loss of appetite


• Promote unusual sleep patterns


• Loss of concentration


• One study found that pregnant women in India who used gutka had a threefold increased risk of having a low birth weight infant.

The extensive marketing of gutkha has led to a widespread addiction amongst school children.

According to a survey conducted in 2008, 5 million children under the age of 15 years are addicted to gutkha.

Another survey conducted in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh highlighted that the precursor of mouth cancers was shown in 16 percent of the children.

The number can get more shocking. The only way to stop the consumption is by educating the masses. Also, one must understand that it needs equal persuasion, guidance and support to help someone quit this habit. It’s not only the numbers that is disturbing, but also the fact that most gutkha users are unaware of the fact it is an addictive and harmful habit.

The list of shocking details doesn’t stop here. So far, ghutka is largely ignored, and there is no regulated body in India that works against the consumption of this deadly mouth freshener. So, till the time we have proper regulations in place, let’s as individuals try and help eradicate this habit. Let us use the power we so proudly hold, education!

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Chaturvedi'S Tobacco Adblaster

Gutkha vendors mushroom

If there is one symptom that is common among most smokers, then it has to be stress. Most chain smokers and regular smokers or even those who have just taken up this deadly habit believe that smoking helps relieve stress. And, it is this feeling of alleviation or calmness is what leads to a daily habit of smoking. But, researchers have a different story to tell.

Various studies and research have shown that it is in fact the smoking that causes stress. It is believed that smokers may seek temporary relief through smoking, but what they lack is true happiness. This lack of happiness is what prompts them to seek relief in smoking. This pattern can be well-defined by the term, vicious cycle.

Priyanka Kaul, a 35-year old, housewife said, "I was trying to give up on this habit for a really long time. But, I was always afraid that I might lose myself once I give up on smoking. The dependency was just too much. However, after years of debate, I finally managed to give up smoking. Today, to my surprise, I feel that I am much calmer and in control of myself." She added, "It’s amazing to learn that I don’t need a cigarette to help me control my emotions or fight stress. I am happy to know that I am no longer dependant on anything to find happiness."

This is just one example. It’s really up to you or the smoker to realise what makes them happy and what has drawn them to this habit, as it's proved that tobacco dependency is associated to high levels of stress. So, what would you rather have a vicious cycle of smoke taking control of your life or a life that is controlled by nobody else but yourself?

The Indian government’s ban on smoking in public places has received mixed reviews from various sets of people. For instance, office executives who usually catch up over a cigarette or use smoke as a way of releasing stress, raised eyebrows over the decision.

Though, some offices are rather strict, some find their way out. However, for college and school students the written ban really means nothing but a piece of paper. In fact, smoking amongst college students has not been affected by the ban.

Most students either have turned a deaf ear towards the ban, or pretend that they have never heard of it. Thus, the bottom line is that students continue to smoke blatantly. Though, educational institutions have been strict with their on-campus smoking rules, there is nothing stopping the students.

Says Professor Vandana Joshi from a reputed Mumbai College, "We can stop them from smoking on campus, but we really can’t follow them everywhere. What we really need is a sound guidance cell that helps students stop this habit on their will, rather than being forced to give up." She adds, "The more students are pressurised against smoking, the more they will continue smoking. Thus, as teachers we must in our own way guide and counsel them against smoking."

It’s not just colleges, smoking is equally rampant amongst school students. Anbumani Ramadoss, the Union minister for health and family welfare, pointed out in one of his speeches that 13 per cent of children in the age group of 13-16 years consume tobacco.

And, to address this concern, the health ministry has allocated Rs 22 lakhs for each district to create awareness about the adverse effects of tobacco in the country, targeting educational institutions. But, is this enough? Or do we need to take more drastic steps against the killer habit?

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Medics are as likely to be smokers as other students

Its a well-documented fact that smoking during pregnancy can affect you and your child, especially your child. In fact, when it comes to your unborn child, go by what your mother always said, "Don’t just hear, listen!"

When it comes to pregnancy one has to follow every word of caution. To give you some facts, smoking increases the levels of carbon monoxide and nicotine in the mother’s bloodstream during pregnancy. This limits the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the baby. Nicotine blocks oxygen supply by narrowing blood vessels throughout your body, including the ones in the umbilical cord. So the baby gets very little oxygen to breathe. Naturally, the baby’s growth is at risk.

Other dangers include birth of a premature and underweight baby. This is not all. Due to poor supply of nutrients and oxygen, the chances of miscarriage and foetal brain damage are also high.

Also, during growing up stages, the child could face problems such as learning disability, chronic health issues such as asthma, behavioral problems, and relatively low IQs. A latest research also pointed out that children of smoking mothers are at a risk of developing cancer in their childhood.

Now, these points are just an outline of what could happen when the baby and the smoke come in close proximity. There are many other issues, and some are more dangerous. But, you can stop all this by, giving up smoking and save your unborn child.

Yes, it may not be an easy task. But, when the craving for just one cigarette arises, think about the baby. You could also:

• Ask your family and friends to help you quit


• Consult your doctor and get tips on how to quit effectively


• Try meditation and relaxation


• Keep reminding yourself that it’s all for your baby


• Don’t give up too soon. Once again, go by the old adage, Keep trying until you succeed!

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Pregnancy and Smoking

Risks remain for pregnant quitters

By 2010, nearly 1 million people are going to die from smoking every year in India. That is the equivalent of 2,740 people every day or 114 people every hour or about 1.9 Indians will die every minute from smoking. Nearly 50% of these are going to be illiterate people, watch this video which shows the tobacco epidemic facing the country today.

The phrase, 'Quitting is for Losers,' works as a complete antithesis in case of a smoker. In fact, if you were a chain smoker, and have managed to completely quit smoking, then people tend to look at you with pride. You become an example, a hero for many... for people you know and sometimes for people you don’t.

You are that one friend, colleague, cousin and so on, to some person in the crowd, who managed to give up smoking. Well, that must be a great feeling, a great sense of achievement, isn’t it? You will find enough websites, books and guides that will help you be ‘that’ hero.

If you are still struggling to pick up that book or browse the net, here are some tips that will help you start the quitting process:

• Take a trip down memory lane: Find out what made you light that first cigarette. Then, analyse what made you want to continue. Don’t make a mental note; write down these points on a piece of paper. And, on the other side of the paper, note down why you want to quit. This should give you enough reasons to learn more about quitting.


• Note the situation: Make an analysis of situations where you feel you smoke the most. Again, find out why you do so, and what will happen if you don’t smoke in these situations.


• Break the myths: Now, that you’ve decided to quit smoking, take a professional approach. Read books, surf the net and consult your doctor to analyse which method suits you the best.


• Take your friends into confidence: Tell your friends that you want to quit smoking, and that they should stand by you like a pillar of strength. You will be surprised to find out how your friends can help you stick to your determination.


• Be nice to yourself: It’s about time. So, indulge in some shopping or spa treatments or just about anything. Just celebrate!

So, are you ready to be that hero? Go ahead, and pick a date and quit smoking!

Author Richard Bach quoted his views on smoking in his book, The Bridge Across Forever... "You matter so little to me that I don’t care if you can’t breathe. Die if you want, I’m lighting up."

Probably, that was the thought behind the ban on smoking in public places, so that the non-smokers doesn’t suffer because of someone’s personal choice. But, does the ban really help or do we need media to actively support this ban?

A couple of years ago, when actor Saif Ali Khan was admitted on account of ill-health and chest pain, he made a public announcement that he would quit smoking. News agencies, channels and newspapers across the country flashed his quote saying, "My doctors told me my condition was brought on entirely by smoking. It caused deposits in the artery, which caused that clot. I’ve decided to quit smoking completely."

Then, we have news of other actors such as Shah Rukh Khan and John Abraham, who made it public that they will try and quit smoking. Once again, is promotion of actors’ off-screen statements declaring a no smoking habit enough to curb the mass spread of the habit of smoking?

But, the fact remains that smoking has acquired a certain social status. Good or bad, personal choice or an influenced habit, one thing is for sure, smoking is not just a health concern; it has far greater social influence.

The effort to break this social connotation though has begun; but is it enough? Is the media using its full rights to influence people against smoking? Or is it getting caught in the act of creative expression, while showing the lead actor puffing in a scene?

We need more characters like on the popular TV series, Friends, who scoff at their friend for smoking. Assertive or not, the media has a lot of power, and it is for us to help them channelise in a certain manner. So, as alert citizens, how can we help media to eradicate this social nuisance?

Since the 14th World Conference on Tobacco or Health kick started earlier this week, policies and topics discussed are being covered by the media worldwide. Lets take a look at some of the International articles pertaining to Tobacco carried by the media from India as well as around the world.

Smoking costs America $101 bn annually in health care

Though use of tobacco is declining in the US compared to developing countries, the habit still costs the country more than $101 billion in health care.

"Annual healthcare costs, both public and private, caused by smoking amount to $96 billion while $5 billion is spent on healthcare related to second-hand smoke. Premature deaths caused by smoking amount to $97 billion in productivity losses," according to the Tobacco Burden Facts on the US, released by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, at the ongoing 14th World Conference on Tobacco or Health in Mumbai Tuesday.

Obama's smoking 'lights up' Mumbai meet

US President Barack Obama has come under attack at the 14th World Conference on Tobacco or Health here for smoking in public - and urged to kick the habit. Obama was singled out at the meet among successful men with a smoking habit.

Anti-smoking activists, doctors and experts described Obama's smoking as an "irresponsible" act taking into account his influential public persona. "I was not aware that Obama smokes. It was shocking for me to know this," a public health activist from Jordan, Kawkab Shishani, told IANS.

Shishani, a delegate, said smoking by a world leader like Obama sends a wrong message. "What would the young learn from him? Obama should give up smoking sooner than later."

Nigeria, Others Seek Compliance from Tobacco

At the 14th World Conference on Tobacco or Health in India which began yesterday and will run to March 12, 2009, governments and civil society are demanding that tobacco corporations comply swiftly with new treaty guidelines preventing industry interference in health policy.

Tobacco companies have long interfered in national health protections that might threaten its profits. The industry has done everything from lavishing gifts on officials and drafting tobacco control laws to hiring officials to lobby agencies they use to work for. All such activities were explicitly prohibited during the third session of the Conference of Parties (COP3), a global tobacco meeting held in Durban, South Africa in November 2008.

“Philip Morris International and others have a history of working at cross-purposes with the letter of the law and public health,” said Kathy Mulvey, international policy director for Corporate Accountability International. “This gathering of governments and civil society is a critical opportunity to forge the institutions and grassroots movements essential to spare our children the tobacco epidemic we face today.”

International Community Demands Big Tobacco Comply Swiftly with ...

At the 14th World Conference on Tobacco or Health in India this week, governments and civil society are demanding tobacco corporations comply swiftly with new treaty guidelines preventing industry interference in health policy.

Big Tobacco has long interfered in public health laws and regulations that might threaten its profits. The industry has done everything from offering contributions and "partnerships" with governments and drafting tobacco control laws to planting its representatives in tobacco control bodies.

The global tobacco treaty, formally known as the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), slams the door on such tactics. At a treaty enforcement meeting in South Africa last November, ratifying countries unanimously adopted a set of guidelines to protect against tobacco industry interference. The treaty is in force in more than 160 countries, home to over 85 percent of the world´s people.

"Philip Morris International and other tobacco giants have a history of working at cross-purposes with the letter of the law and public health," said Kathy Mulvey, international policy director for Corporate Accountability International. "This gathering of governments and civil society is a critical opportunity to forge the institutions and grassroots movements essential to spare our children from the tobacco epidemic we face today."

Tobacco-related deaths in Asia reported on the rise

Tobacco will kill 6 million people annually by next year and cause an estimated 500 billion-dollar loss to the global economy, according to health conference in India Tuesday.

The 14th World Conference on Tobacco or Health in Mumbai revealed that China and India were the world's biggest tobacco users at 325 million and 241 million tobacco users respectively.

'Tobacco industry has shifted its marketing and sales efforts to countries that have less effective public health policies and fewer resources and by 2010, tobacco will kill 6 million people worldwide annually,' Judith Mackay, special advisor at World Lung Foundation which prepared the document with American Cancer Society, the Zee TV news network reported.

Corporate leaders pledge to make work places smoke free

Corporate leaders from 60 companies came together here on Monday, not for a business meet, but to pledge to make work places smoking free. At least 19 companies signed a commitment to make their work places smoking free in the presence of Union Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss at the 14th World Conference on Tobacco or Health here.

The corporate leaders also participated in a symposium on 'Corporate Leaders Meet on Worksite Wellness Initiatives: Promoting Smoke Free Workplaces in India'. The anti-tobacco law came into effect in the country Oct 2, 2008. The rules mandates that all public places, including government offices, public and private offices be smoking free.

Stubbed at workplace, smokers find new haunts to light up

The no-smoking board at one's workplace does keep smokers at bay, but a new survey conducted across the globe including India has indicated that a majority of
the cigarette-addicts simply found an alternative place to smoke.

A whopping 81% of the Indian employees interviewed said that they had found a new place to smoke ever since the ban on smoking at workplaces was implemented on October 2, 2008. On the bright side, the survey showed that 37% of the Indian employees were trying to reduce the number of cigarettes they smoked in a day.

The Global Workplace Survey conducted across 14 countries involved 21-minute interviews with over 3,000 employed smokers and employers. Indian findings were in sync with the data gathered in other countries such as the UK, France, Turkey and Brazil.

The 14th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health got underway in Mumbai with several anti-tobacco advocates, health experts, scientists, educators and policymakers having gathered to tackle the growing concern about smoking around the world.

Inaugurated by the Governor of Maharashtra, SC Jamir, the conference is being held in India for the first time. The issue is acute in India, which is the world's second largest producer and consumer of tobacco, and has never had a large-scale tobacco control campaign.

Jamir called for specific corrective measures to save the people, especially the youngsters, from the perils of tobacco. He lamented the fact that 90% of all oral cancer cases in South East Asia are linked to tobacco consumption.

The Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Anbumani Ramadoss also present at the 14th WCTOH said, "In India, 57 per cent of men and just over 10 per cent women in the age group 15 to 49 use tobacco in some form or the other." He was hopeful that by May 31st, there will be pictorial warnings on all tobacco products.

With regards to smoking in films, Ramadoss said that a new strategy will be implemented to fight this issue, because in the past, villains were shown smoking, but now most of these scenes are filmed on heroes, which are admired by the youth.

In fact, one study revealed that 52% of the child-smokers had their first puff after seeing their heroes smoke on the screen. He rued the fact that a silent majority of 85% (who are against smoking) is being systematically overpowered by the noisy minority of the tobacco industrialists.

Youth Refuse to be Targeted by Tobacco Industry

Youth from 27 countries met at the 2nd Global Youth Meet (GYM) in the lead up to the 14th World Conference on Tobacco Or Health expressed their common ire against cross-border tobacco advertising in films. GYM was organized by Health-Related Information Dissemination Amongst Youth (HRIDAY) and Salaam Bombay Foundation.

There are more than 160 youth from 27 countries and nine Indian states who are participating in the GYM 2009. They devised country-specific action plans on effectively implementing the smoke-free policies and ban on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship in their respective countries.

Corporates Pledge to have Smoke-free Work Places

Corporate leaders from 60 companies came together during the conference to pledge to make work places smoking free. At least 19 companies signed a commitment to have a smoke-free environment. The anti-tobacco law came into effect in the country last year on October 2nd. The rules mandates that all public places, including government offices, public and private offices be smoking free.

"Smoking at work places leads to an increase in the number of sick leaves taken by an employee, increases the health care costs by about 18 percent, besides more occupational stress on smokers," said Shyam Pingle, a doctor and President of Indian Association of Occupational Health.

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Pre-conference Youth Workshop - 14th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

India film smoking ban is lifted

Singapore became the first country in Asia in 2004 to show graphic warnings featuring gory images to increase awareness about the health risks attached to smoking. In fact, the law required the cigarette packs to have up to 50 percent of its front and back cover showing the image; taking its anti-smoking campaign to the next level.

Likewise, in the UK, a £6.3 million hard-hitting anti-smoking campaign was released targeting the teen population. This campaign spoke the language of the teens. It highlighted how smoking can affect sex lives because of impotence, bad teeth, wrinkles and the unattractive smell that lingers after lighting up.

In India too, some hard-hitting campaigns and jingles like, "With a cigarette in my hand, I felt like a man," people were exposed to the harsh realities of smoking. Recently, Aamir Khan, who believes in promoting a social cause, supported the anti-smoking drive in his latest release, Ghajini. The scene, which has drawn accolades from the anti-smoking lobby, showed gang of hooligans smoking in a mall which is objected to by one of the actress.

Efforts like these work as they portray public smoking as an illegal activity,
and that is why Union Health Minster Anbumani Ramadoss is aiming at seeking an increase in budgetary allocation for the anti-tobacco campaign and plans to use part of cess collected from tobacco sales for the purpose.

The government now plans to intensify its public awareness programme. The minister claims that, "90 per cent (success) was achieved by public awareness and voluntary compliance and 10 per cent by the authorities."

At present, the budgetary allocation for anti-tobacco campaign is Rs 450 crore and Ramadoss would seek to increase it by another Rs 100-125 crore annually to push it forward. So, whether or not the budget is allocated, let’s do our bit by supporting the cause, and stop people from smoking in public places, because it's our right.

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Pictorial warning on cigarette pack

Graphics on cigarette packets

You may have found your reasons to smoke and to accept it as a part of your life. And, you may have all right reasons to overlook the ill-effects of smoking. But, how about giving your child a reason to choose what it wants?

So, here are some facts that might make you revisit your habit. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), in the United States about 6,000 adolescent turn into smokers almost every day. Most of these have been to exposed to smoke at an early age. Hence, they have somewhere accepted the fact that it's okay to be seen with a cigarette. Further, WHO also cited that every day over 15 million children are exposed to smoke in their homes.

In a study conducted by Salaam Bombay Foundation with 6351 students under the age of 18 from 19 municipal and private schools it was found that over 40% of their parents consumed tobacco. This in itself is a matter of great concern as parents using tobacco leads to more social acceptability and a role model in their minds.

If numbers look big, try this. It is understood that passive smoking has greater effect on children than adults. It’s not just about accepting it as a part of life, but these children are prone to higher health risks.

The term scientifically described as Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), and popularly referred to as passive smoking possess the ability to cause cancer in human. If the exposure to ETS happens on a regular basis before the age of 10 years, there are high chances that the child can develop lymphoma and leukemia (cancers of the blood) as an adult.

But, not all children fall under that category. Some may face regular health problems like increased risk of cold, wheezing, shortness-of-breath, risk of developing asthma and a weak immune system. The list doesn’t stop here. There are enough studies and reports to highlight more risks and diseases in children. So, do take a look at them, before it’s too late. Here’s wishing your child a healthy life!

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Smoking Warnings

With the 14th World Conference on Tobacco or Health to take place in Mumbai in March, India Matters went out on the streets to find out the common man's take on Tobacco!


What's your opinion on tobacco usage, send a video or post a comment on India Matters, here's your chance to be heard as we reach out to the policy makers present during the event.

We’ve heard the saying, good things come in small packages. But, there is an antithesis to this. It’s called Gutkha. Sold in pocket size packages that cost anywhere between Re 1 to Rs 4, Gutka has some adverse effects.

Prepared from crushed betel nut, tobacco and sweet or savoury flavourings, ghutka can catch the fancy of almost anyone. This mild stimulant can cause cancer of lungs, lips, tongue, oral cavity, throat and larynx, uterus and urinary bladder and several other tobacco-related diseases.

In India, it is consumed by both adult and children, in equal numbers. In fact, most ghutka manufactures market the product to children by referring to it as a candy or mouth fresheners. For instance, there are packs that highlight, chocolate-flavoured or mint and so on. Most of these packets don’t even highlight tobacco as an ingredient. Even, if they do, the exact percentage is not mentioned.

Apart from marketing, in India chewing of tobacco or consuming in the form of gutkha, is not frowned upon. So, many use this form of consumption as an alternative to cigarette smoking. Though an alternative at the start, it is believed to cause the need to smoke in an individual at a later stage, and also poses a threat of becoming a habit that is difficult to quit.

As reported in one of the leading national dailies, in India, 85 per cent of tobacco consumption is in the form of khaini, ghutka (both flavoured chewing tobacco) and beedi, a large market for which thrives in rural areas and smaller towns.

This highly addictive products, has been a subject of controversy in India for many years. Many states have either tried to curb its sales by levying heavy taxes or have laid a complete ban on the usage. But, is a ban really the answer? What we really need to use, is the power of education that will help eradicate the need by choice and not by force.

The ill-effects of smoking are not a new revelation. But, most smokers spin a surprise look, when they hear about the harmful effects of smoking. However, there is little to wonder, after all, smoking is nothing but the effect of psychoactive drug nicotine and its stimulating effects on the brain.

Basically, what the drug does is create a pleasurable effect on the smoker, and once it’s inhaled, more often than not people start depending on the drug. Thus, turning non-smokers into smokers.

The reasons for inhaling that first drag could be plenty. And, most of it is the state of mind. Haven’t you heard of reasons like, "Everyone around me smokes, so how can I be seen without a light?" or "It tingles my creative brain" or "A cigarette makes me feel confident." But have you realised that these are nothing but make believe situations created by you. What you are doing here is playing mind games with yourself.

Remember, smokers are not considered stylish or crass. The habit of smoking is what makes a person. So, if it’s just about a habit, then one can adapt a new habit that is not just chic, but healthy for everyone. Isn’t it? So, instead of creating excuses, use your mind to imagine yourself as a non-smoker every night before you go to sleep.

It is believed that your subconscious mind will work on the last thoughts before you retire for the day. I know, it’s easy to preach, but it is still worth a shot. And, we are sure that if your mind takes it seriously, you may even be able to come up with a book on interesting facts on how to use your state of mind to quit smoking. So, go on and play some mind games.

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Smoking Effects

We conducted two polls for three weeks, which were based on your views about tobacco use in India and its ill-effects. Here the results -

Among the substances that are widely available, which one do you think is the most addictive?

The options were Alcohol, Tobacco, Tea, Cocaine and Coffee. Out of 203 votes we received during this time, 54% agreed that tobacco is more harmful than other substances, followed by alcohol which received 18% of the votes. In fact nicotine is not only as addictive as alcohol, tea and coffee, but even more addictive then psychoactive drugs like heroin and cocaine.

The next poll was on the smoking ban imposed at public places in October, 2008.

Do you feel that people abide by the law that bans smoking in public places?

Out of the 197 people who voted, 57% people feel that the authorities need to get more strict when it comes to implementing the law, while 18% have seen people smoking in public places.

An award-winning commercial on the harmful effects of smoking. Its done quite well, the video shows a group of youngsters going to a tobacco company to question about cigarette smoke.

We are all aware of the statutory warning: Cigarette Smoking is Injurious to Health. But, what most of us don’t realise is that exposure to smoke is a bigger threat.

Yes, passive smoking is more harmful than we think. According to a study released by Stanford University, a brief exposure to second hand tobacco smoke can cause similar damage or more damage to non-smokers than smokers. In fact, if one is exposed to outdoor passive smoking it is even more dangerous.

Experts say the reason is simple: there are enough pollutants in the air and this air combined with toxic pollutants produced while smoking makes it really worse, which in turn poses higher health risk.

So, the next time you are outside with your friends or family, try and spare a thought on the risks you could pass on, before you light a smoke. And, it’s not that passive smoking indoors is any safer. It might pose a little less threat than outdoor passive smoking, but the effects and risks are almost similar.

These health hazards could be asthma, chronic bronchitis, breathlessness at night and even irregular heartbeat. If you have been smoking in the company of your non-smoker friends or family for a long time, chances are that they could be facing a risk of premature death or non-fatal heart attacks.

If numbers is what you are likely to believe, then here is some fact. In 2006, a report released in the US, stated that second hand cigarette smoke or passive smoking exposed about 126 million people at risk of heart disease, lung cancer and death.

Here’s a thought, you may have felt like a man or in control with that puff of smoke, but can you put yourself at a high pedestal, when you could be responsible for your friends’ or loved ones health.

Lets take a look at this anti-tobacco advertisement that talks about the gory warnings on packets, and I should warn you it is a tough one to watch. Through our recent online communications we have realised that some people do not want gory pictures on cigarette packets.

Its interesting, with reasons such as children would see these terrifying images on discarded packets. While some think it will really help bring down the amount of smokers. Personally I feel that people need to know what their habits can lead to and the facts should be on paper so why not?

Anyway heres this hard hitting advertisement:

In 2005, the then I&B Minister, Jaipal Reddy, said, “A cinematic classic like Shatranj ke Khiladi cannot be made without the hookah,” proposing an exemption for films based on literary classics.

This was followed by the health ministry’s proposal to ban smoking in films by notifying the Cigarette and Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Amendment Rules 2005.

Despite, evoking the much debate on creative expression, the central government notified the ban in October 2006. But, director Mahesh Bhatt challenged the ruling in Delhi High court, and he was supported by many filmmakers.

And, to their relief, in January 2009, the Delhi High Court quashed the central government’s notification banning on-screen smoking on grounds that it violates the fundamental rights of filmmakers.

A single judge bench of Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, said, “Banning smoking in films violated filmmakers’ fundamental rights of freedom of expression and speech as enshrined in the Constitution of India. Also, the film directors should not have multifarious authorities breathing down their necks when indulging in a creative act.”

It is felt that in addition to creative expression, films depict reality of life and smoking plays a vital role in our daily lives. However, if there is a fear that such films will have a negative impact on young minds, then the decision to allow smoking or not in certain films, should be left to the Censor board. This clearly calls for responsible display of smoking and tobacco consumption in films.

Besides, constitutional or not, one cannot make Devdas without a bottle of alcohol in his hands or the modern day Dev D, without a puff of smoke. But, yes the ministry is not completely wrong with it tries to urge all of us to kick the butt on a more personal front.

Lets take a look at some popular actresses smoking in Hollywood movies. This is not just used as advertisement techniques for a particular brand but to lure teenagers to this vice.



You can also watch the documentary on Tobacco in Indian Movies and read about the effects of smoking on woman.

A powerful ad on smoking. It sends out a clear message stating the hazards of tobacco for men. Watch it to see more -

Most youngsters start smoking out of curiosity and after getting inspired by people in their homes, neighbourhoo, streets.. In fact, I have seen many people sending their children to shops to get tobacco related products. The smoke, coming out of one's lungs and stimulation of brain by nicotene, appeals to 12-15 yr old children. However, they remain oblivious to the damage that is being done from inside. Educational institutions who take children out on school trips to dairy farms and science centres must also take older children (8th-10th grade) to hospitals like Tata Cancer Hospital and help them understand the evils of tobacco usage. Hospitals should open such exhibits showcasing the harmful effect of tobacco to one's anatomy.

Mohammad Sabir, Mumbai

Even if the Govt banned tobacco products, everybody knows it will still be available in the market by other means and people who are addicted will still purchase tobacco even though they will have to pay more.

But still there are certain points that I would like to HIGHLIGHT regarding the steps our Govt should take before implementing a ban on Tobacco...

You might be aware that Tobacco cannot be sold to kids under 18...right? But does everyone follow that, not really...I have seen various panwallahs who sell tobacco to children who start smoking because they think thats cool...So first the Govt should takes steps to avoid this, and the next thing that comes to light is the bribe scene. Now the Govt already knows that if they have to make the system more STRICT then they will have to first stop taking bribes...Which is not gonna happen that quick in India. You know in USA and Aus if you sell a Smoke (or even Liquor) to under 18 you can get a ticket (FINE) of $100-500. So my ques is can't the Govt implement this system in INDIA?

Other thing that the Govt can do is build SMOKING ZONE where all the smokers can smoke without harassing other people. I mean people are annoyed if someone standing near them is smoking. Smokers have nothing to do with other people and just want to finish their NICOTINE intake.

Regarding the Environment, I think there are plenty of other HIGH PRIORITY issues that the Govt should deal with first. Instead of announcing that due to SMOKING habits of people the environment is getting polluted.

The last thing which comes to my mind is that the Govt should make people aware of what Tobacco addiction can lead them to. Right now I am in Aus and whatever cigs I buy, come with photographs of various forms of Cancer caused by Tobacco Addiction to make smokers aware what they are doing with their system and what trouble it can cause, there are lots of instructions about HOW YOU CAN QUIT SMOKING and if you need some advise then call the QUITLINE, instead of just displaying the manufacturers name on the pack of a cigs.

Mitul, Ahmedabad

Im glad you're dealing with such an important matter. My opinion on tobacco and the Govt rules and regulations behind it are:-

1) Even if you covered the whole cigarette carton with images of cancer patients it won't help, tobacco addiction is much deeper.
2) We need to remove the image that surrounds a smoker of being more mature, cool, rich etc. because most of the time its the image that smoking creates in a person that gets to him and makes sure he stays addicted and songs like B.C.Sutta are good examples of it.
3) Smoking is a personal thing so its more upto the parents and friends to get the smokers off the death road.
4) The police need to be more vigilant and serious about the ban on smoking in public places, since I myself have smoked in front of a full jeep of policemen in public place.
5) People should stop shunning smokers and labeling smoking as a taboo, because its something thats been going on since ages.
6) Mostly every teen has tried smoking at least once and a fairly large percentage of those continue smoking for a good year or two before they realise what they are doing and quit, while a certain percentage of people out of it become habitual smokers.
7) Our lives are becoming increasingly gloomy day by day, it gives the weak ones another excuse to smoke and they begin a self-pitying cycle and think that they need cigarettes to survive, they begin to get dependent on tobacco as if it were food.

What I suggest is to come out of the reprimanding view of the anti-smoking ads going on nowadays and come clean about the real dangers of smoking. Dont treat it as a disease instead make them think of it as a choice that the smoker takes everytime he smokes and what he pays with in return. Be concise and to the fact, no one pays attention when you're reprimanding them.

And also work on alternative means of smoking, since smoking is ingrained in our culture since we know about it. Its gone too deep to be taken care of so fast. We need to give a choice to smoking cigarettes with less harmful ways like better filters or better treated tobacco or vaporisers.

Amit Shukla, Mumbai

I would just say that anybody who loves life should hate tobacco as its a slow poison that kills you.

Riz

I believe increasing tax on tobacco would give the company more revenue because people are definitely not going to stop smoking even if the price hikes instead they would end up spending more than usual.

Krish, Bhubaneswar

I have tried smoking for the pleasure of trying things and I hated it. Moreover, like other habits, drinking and Gutkha, smoking not only spoils ones health but also of people around the one who smokes and that is one reason I am sure everyone will want to ban smoking. So more than banning any other items, cigarettes are of primary concern.

I guess that will also help reduce the worst disease like cancer which has no medicine. People know that smoking, drinking and using Gutkha is highly injurious to health and yet they do. So that cant be stopped. As I mentioned earlier out of these things, atleast smoking should be banned in order to save not just the smokers but the innocent people around them. All the best for your efforts.

Kishore Kumar, Chennai

SMOKING is like blowing away your precious life in smoke and also harming the life of others. I have never smoked and never will. I cant stand smoking and smokers and thats the reason I have picked up few quarrels in public places like parks, cinema halls etc. In my view, though cigratte smoking is the most visible form of smoking the one which harms the most is use of raw chewing tobacco in rural and backward areas and to certain extent in urban areas.

Raw tobacco is still being consumed and its not only men but women also who cherish chewing tobacco. It is also used in many forms as a medicine which it is not. It is due to all cultural and religious ill beliefs that people use it. I strongly support the ban on smoking in public places similarly there should be pictures of ill effects of smoking on cigarette packs. Also its sale should be checked to underage youngsters.

Jeetendra, Mumbai

Yes it is very harmful for present and future genaerations. It has to be stopped, so how?
1.Warn the retailer of Pan beedi shops to not sell their items to Kids
2.Warn the Tobacco comsumer against smoking in front of kids
3.Warn the media to not accept sponsorship from tobacco companies.

Rahul, Mumbai

One can't ask the smokers to quit abruptly, you need to give them alternatives. The other thing one needs to cut down is the supply from the manufacturer's end. Putting higher taxes, is one inefficient means, but probably putting limit to quantity being manufactured and creating gap between demand and supply, should do the trick. You have both the consumer as well as the supplier of tobacco and its allied products will be affected.

Moksh Juneja

What exactly we need today is one-on-one counselling and strengthening the minds of all those people who have been addicted to it, one-on-one will be a very tedious job but you can collect a handful of such people and counsel on the second. This means you can organise a 1-hour movie for all of them by showing all inspirational videos which will help build positivity in them as what I think the root cause of this problem is negativity and thoughts which compel them to do so.

Vineeta Dave

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Smoking is a silent killer be it in one form or the other. To add to it a lot of people are exposed to Passive Smoking which is even more harmful or equally bad for an individual. The initiative by the Government to ban smoking in public places was a good move and it is high time something similar is brought about with regards to consumption of Gutka or just Tobacco in the country. The Government needs to have more initiatives to make the public more aware of the harmful effects of Tobacco, just like we have the Ring the Bell Campaign, something similar should be highlighted. What is even more disgusting is the consumption of Tobacco and its misuse on public property. The Government should have stringent rules in order to keep the city clean and dirt free.

Charmaine Fernz, Mumbai

Its BAD, we know that it creates a lot of health problems for people who consume it, although it is a high revenue earner for the govt, it should be allowed only in exceptional cases. It makes people addictive and finally takes their lives, this leads to personal, financial and physical issues among the person consuming it day in and day out. Its a small poison in itself, people consume it first and then it consumes the same people later. It takes a lot of lives every year and the count is ever-increasing.

Mitul Shantilal Rambhia, Mumbai

I am all for complete eradication of tobacco. But then we should also ensure that the plantation workers are adequately rehabilitated.

Venkatachalam Krishnan, Bangalore

Tobacco specially the unprocessed one should be banned in India so much so that not so many variants are sold any where else in the world. Gutkha is the worst of all and it takes its toll in the form of mouth cancer and bad teeth etc. I cant stand a guy chewing Gutkha. Smoking is equally bad but regarded a fashion which is not good. Indian cigarettes do not even mention nicotine content. It should be made mandatory. Overall in my view Tobacco should be banned immediately and its farming should also be banned. People should be encouraged and educated to get rid of it and stay away from it.

Jaswinderjit Singh, Gujarat

The use of tobacco in our country is increasing day by day. The govt is not implementing any new plan for this. Any plan the govt has laid, has not worked. In the case of farmers who cultivate tobacco, if the govt bans tobacco, then they will starve, one good thing the govt can do for the farmer is help them cultivate other crops. But how will the govt shut down, because the manufacturers pay huge bribe to the govt. The most addicted to tobacco are teenagers who get influenced by the media and tobacco ads. Tobacco is one of the most dangerous things, and the youth can't understand its harmful effect. The thing we can do for the ones addicted is to igve proper counselling and treatment.

Filosh Mohan, Gujarat

As far as concerned with banning tobacco ,then frankly speaking it will make employed people unemployed....so instead of banning tobacco we should put restriction or there should be some law for not selling tobaccos to minor.

Rajiv, Mumbai

I feel that people who smoke are careless and do not want to accept that they are weak and escapists. We all know the potential dangers of tobacco and the facts, still we do not picture ourselves being affected by it. We are fine smoking but do not want to think of the effects it may have on others. Same thing with gutkha too, its just addiction to the taste and whatever ingredient it has, that soothens the nerves, its more of an issue of victory of body over mind, physical needs take precedence over mental, social and emotional ones. Need to fulfill physical urges and ignore wat your mind tells. To sum up, addiction, carelesness, weakness, lack of reasoning, escapism and not wanting to shoulder responsibility.

Roohi Ahmed, Mumbai.

Its for the government to ban it completely, but alas they seem to be more concerned about the revenue it brings. Dheema zehar hai yeh, chod do, varna pachtaoge, ek din aayega ghut ghut ke mar jaoge. This has been going on for years, rallies, campaigns etc., but nothing seems to have changed, on the contrary the number of tobacco consumers seems to be increasing. They can't change anything, its the people who need to change, its the friend who encourages another to smoke, who needs to change, its the shopkeeper who sells the devilish stuff who needs to change. We need a change, stand up and smoke away tobacco.

Shreyash Ajay Vishwaroop, Kota

The government banned tobacco and gutka products but not sealed the factories, If there is no production, no supply automatically no one can smoke, but govt can't do this because there is a huge loss of tax.

Jitendra, Kolhapur

I think the production of tobacco itself should be stopped. Then there will not be other issues like putting ban on smoking, writing statutory warning on cigarette packets, etc. But govt is not willing to do this because then it would have to let go huge amount of taxes. As for the farmers who are growing tobacco, the plants should be used for some other purpose "atleast" for the time till all the tobacco plants are being used up. For example, studies are already in progress for utilizing tobacco as biofuel. I think there is a need for the govt to divert the utilization of tobacco instead of spending heaps of rupees behind anti-tobacco campaign.

Kunal, Anand

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Well the cigarette itself has tempted me on one occasion when my friends were smoking it, but thankfully didn't get through it since a senior had wittingly scared me out of it. Till now I didn't know why I wanted to try it but just that I wanted to know how it felt. And I guess that's how it starts. We learn from what others do so I'm guessing among the youth that itself is a mode of spreading the habit. Being accepted as part of a social circle tends to pervert the mind into all sorts of stuff.

From what I've read, cigarettes are a major source of income so knowing that itself is disheartening. Man being a creature of habit, enforcing rules as such won't help as it leads to resistance and unnecessary outbreaks. In med school I was told that rehabs themselves have very high failure rates, therefore they look to project the success' so as to encourage more and more people to quit.

So banning, increasing prices, informed choices and what not are helpful in preventing the blind leading the blind but unfortunately not definitive in anyway.

Risus Sardonicus, Mangalore

Unless the user himself retrieves from this habit its unstoppable from society. Even the policy makers go for a ban of tobacco in public who is going to follow? First it has to be implemented in each and every state and the state should follow the rule strictly.

In real scenario here in TN, govt has banned it 3 times but they are not taking any action on the users in public. People will use it scarcely for a week, after knowing govt is liberal they take it to their advantage and this cycle continues. I conclude with a last statement, since INDIA is democratic nobody can stop this unless the person changes his habit or the politicians shouldn't be hungry for money from producers of tobacco products. Only then its purely possible otherwise its the fate of INDIA to loose people due to tobacco.

Santhosh Kumar, Trichy

I feel the government is showing double standards in banning smoking in public, but hasn't banned it completely, because of which, people still smoke in public.

Parin Chheda, Mumbai.

I feel banning smoking/tobacco is not the answer, rather educating about the ill-effects and consequences would help. Let us see the causes and consequences, tobacco is consumed all over the world in its various forms, in gutka, cigarettes, cigars, snuff, hookah, bidis, tooth powder, etc., It is highly addictive and habit forming. One gets induced into the habit due to stress, work pressure, work, personality disorders, insecurities, depression, cultural or familial customs or habits, peer pressure, as a way of exploring new vistas by youngsters. They would copy film stars and celebrities, being linked to manliness and style, out of curiosity, etc. When it becomes an addiction or habit, it not only causes medical problems but also social, economic and environmental problems!

What is required is information and education about the dangers of tobacco to an individual and to society at large! In the end it all boils down to PERSONAL CHOICE but it should be a well-informed, educated individual who makes the choice.

Kul Bhushan Tandon, Mumbai

Banning is not the solution, it will cause illegal sale, we won't even know the exact use of tobacco products. Rather we should increase taxes on it to make them less accessible and use the tax money for awareness and rehabilitation of people. There should be restriction on production or further progress in this industry. All big leaders and celebrities should help in creating such awareness.

Anil, Noida

I love my tobacco in various forms: Ciggies, rolled up rizlas, good old tobac and lime and and number of various other versions. I am against anti smoking.

Varun Gawarikar, Mumbai

I think not only public smoking, but also smoking on TV and movies should be banned, license should be checked before selling cigarettes, and other tobacco products. But banning smoking products is not fair as revenues from tobacco products constitute an integral part of revenue for the country.

Nitish Kapoor, Delhi

The government should ban the companies that manufacture tobacco products like gutkha, cigarettes, khaini etc., instead of banning the use of tobacco containing product like cigarette.

But lets not forget that the lives of the people who earn their daily bread by means of tobacco (such as farmers who are into tobacco farming) would be badly affected.
I read a article in a newspaper in which it was stated that the figures indicating the number of deaths caused every year due to consumption of tobacco or tobacco containing products are blown out of proportion.

Mummya, Miraj

Firstly referring to the ban imposed on smoking in several states including my town Shimla, people actually smoke in public places all the time and the cops just act oblivious to it! Honestly the youth is relatively more aware, w(students) frequently object to people who smoke in public places and we reprimand right in front of their face and people do feel little mortified and learn a lesson but smoking in publib places or somewhere out on a limb, you harm yourself!

The govt did confess that they get way more money from taxes on fags then the amount of money they spend on discouraging smoking! Unfortunately the better financial status of people is being splurged in such junk.

Abhishek, Shimla

Tobacco is harmful and all that, well its compulsory for the cig companies to put their warning on the pack that it kills people who smoke it, but then its upto the people who smoke to decide whether to continue with it or leave it. Well the govt. is taking steps, increasing taxes making rules not to sell smoke to under 18. Its all useless until and unless the smokers want to stop it themselves. I myself started smoking when I was sixteen and I still remember no one could stop me from fagging. Though I did get rid of the smoking habit two years later and it was not the prices rising or some silly movie or advert which made me do it, but just that I could not bear to think that my life was dependent on a six rupee white stick with tobacco in it and I would not like to live by something that cheap like a coward and tht was it, I stopped craving for smoke any longer. Trust me its not that difficult to stop. Today I sit with all my friends smoking and not wanting to take a puff at all. Even in the rarest of the circumstances if I chose to smoke once just socially it does not get me started again. I know it sounds almost ancient to say that only way one can stop tobacco is self realization, but its only true.

Shade, London

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The thing that I am going to mention right now is more dangerous than tobacco or dope or cigarettes that usually youngsters consume even though it may have the same after effects. This powerful alternative or lets say chemical is "Rubber Solution Adhesive". This is very cheaply available (Rs.7 for a 50gm pack) at any hardware or shoe material shop and is moreover sniffed by children from the slums. A really small 50gm pack can be used/sniffed till it totally dries up, which approximately takes around 8-10 days (if used just for sniffing). Hence making it the cheapest alternative available in town. This product is so dangerous that it can make a really cute little child look like a full-time dopey with dark circles around his eyes in less than a month if sniffed regularly.

Huzefa Tapia, Mumbai

The use of tobacco and gutka should definitely be banned, as there is no doubt that they are injurious to health, but it's a shame to know that there is politics been played on the name of public health. The politicians are paid hefty amounts by the tobacco companies so as not to ban it so that their trade is not affected, it is openly sold but with a warning informing to drink at your own risk. Recently there was a ban on hookah's and bars but why is there not even a mention of ban on tobacco and gutka. I've always heard that India is a colorful country, after noticing all colour on the roads and footpaths because of gutka and tobacco it has really proved that India is a colourful country.

Anu Ahmed, Mumbai

Its a personal choice... I do not have anything against sale of tobacco or alcohol, besides the lobby is too big to be affected by individuals.

Rohit Nair, Bangalore.

Anything that is harmful is bad. I would say this to every individual, use it but think before you commit SUICIDE.

Blackstar, Pune

Tobacco must be banned. I lost one of my family members due to this. In Chattisgarh tobacco was banned but within a month it people started smoking in trains, and nobody is stopping them.

Tyson, Trivandrum

Today's youth is damn sensitive or you can say they are prone to show off. They don't have any idea why they take up smoking, some of them say it makes a cool statement, or helps them if they are doing some mentally or physically exhausting work, like, "My Gf Ditched me, so i am Smoking" or "Hey i work in BPO Dude, i need to smoke." Anbumani Ramadoss made a huge step in curbing tobacco, but hardly anyone knows when it was implemented !.

Monusai, Mumbai

According to me smoking is a matter of personal choice, it depends on an individual whether he can risk his lungs for a 'stick of pleasure', but yes, banning its use in public places is quite a right thing as one has no right to cause harm to people who chose not to smoke, by the fumes he exhales. A positive education drive against tobacco will do, for instance, I really liked the idea of our health minister suggesting film actors to avoid it on screen, I think most people take up smoking due to its hype rather than its pleasure, and that hype comes from films and TV, so its more important to tell people its harmful, rather than banning it, as I think even banned things are an easy access in India. Banning sale of tobacco to children must be strictly implemented, its just like adult cinema, you can't see it till you are old enough to judge its worth trying or not.

Muktabh Mayank, UP

Actually I do smoke, but you see the point is all about ones choice. You can't stop people from smoking or boozing. The government should not exactly encourage smoking, but just prevent underage smoking and put up neat smoking zones instead. The government should do its part by putting statutory warnings and enlighten teenagers about the negatives of underage smokin, I feel most of the teens turn to smoking as a style symbol and peer pressure (I was one of them).

Viron, Hyderabad

Actually I don't know what pleasure do smokers get in burning their lungs and lives even after knowing the hazards and ill-effects of smoking, they can't avoid it, so a ban should be imposed on tobacco and smoking for their own welfare. I am a teenager myself and I hav seen many people smoking around me, many times I have got tempted to try it, but I could never bring myself to it coz i know that once I try its got to be bad for me and maybe I get addicted. I fully support this initiative and lets hope for the best.

Rajat Emmaniac, Lucknow

Sorry can't comment on the hazards of smoking as I am a smoker too. But one thing I would like to tell the youth is tobacco can be really bad for your body. I can give my entire goodies for a year to the person who would help me quit it and never go back again.

Rashmi, Chandigarh

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