GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 24th Oct. A recent survey conducted by the citizen-led initiative “Tobacco Free India” has revealed a strong public sentiment favoring smoke-free environments across various public spaces. Nearly 93 percent of respondents supported making public spaces entirely smoke-free, while an impressive 97 percent advocated for declaring airports smoke-free, similar to railway stations.
The poll, which gathered more than 65,000 responses between October 2 and October 19, highlights growing concerns about the harmful effects of second-hand smoke among Indians. It was conducted in both Hindi and English and featured six key questions focused on the risks associated with second-hand smoke and the need for stricter regulations to protect vulnerable groups, including women and children.
Dr. Uma Kumar, head of the rheumatology department at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), emphasized the public health risks posed by the current provisions of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003. Although the Act prohibits smoking in public places, it still allows designated smoking areas in airports, hotels, and certain restaurants. “This situation poses a significant public health threat as second-hand smoke can easily penetrate these areas, exposing non-smokers to harmful toxins,” Dr. Kumar noted.
International wrestler Sangram Singh, a “Fit India” brand ambassador, highlighted the concern over smoking areas in airports, which often attract smokers and undermine public health efforts. He stated, “These designated areas seem to send an inviting message to smoke, reinforcing the need for stricter smoke-free policies.”
The poll results come at a critical juncture, coinciding with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s proposal to amend COTPA to eliminate smoking zones entirely. This initiative is part of the ongoing Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign 2.0, aimed at protecting young Indians from tobacco hazards.
According to the World Health Organization, tobacco-related diseases claim approximately 1.3 million lives in India each year, making it a significant public health crisis. The survey also shed light on the economic burden of second-hand smoke, revealing healthcare costs of ₹567 billion annually, which accounts for 8 percent of India’s total healthcare expenditures.
The results of this poll reflect a growing awareness among Indians regarding the dangers of second-hand smoke and reinforce the urgent need for comprehensive smoke-free policies. As the government considers amendments to strengthen tobacco control measures, the overwhelming support for smoke-free environments underscores the public’s commitment to safeguarding health and well-being for all citizens.
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