::: Resource Centre For Tobacco Free India :::

India has been a forerunner in the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) and was the Regional Coordinator for the South-East Asian Region. It was one of the first few countries to ratify the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) in 2004.

They adopted the “WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control” (WHO FCTC) by the World Health Assembly on 24th May 1999 which was an important landmark in achieving comprehensive tobacco control worldwide. India is the 7th country that has ratified the WHO FCTC on 5th February 2004.

In addition, the WHO Tobacco Free Initiative encourages countries to develop and strengthen strategies for tobacco control measures. The international treaty signed by member-states of the United Nations and the European Community that require them to restrict advertising and sponsorship of tobacco products and outlaw smoking in public places. The government banned smoking in public places, tobacco advertising and sponsorship of sporting events by tobacco companies.

Obligations under the WHO FCTC

Taxation and duty free sales
-taxes and price policies should aim to help control
-duty free sales are discouraged
Non smokers should be protected from second hand smoke by extending the protection to
-indoor workplaces
- public transport
-indoor public places
Legal health warnings are required
Prohibition of sale to minors Increasing public awareness - by education, communication and training

Measures relating to the reduction of demand for tobacco
Price and tax measures to reduce the demand for tobacco Non-price measures:

Protection from exposure to tobacco smoke
Regulation and disclosure of contents of tobacco products and smoke
Packaging and labeling of tobacco products
Prohibition on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship (including cross-border advertising)
Treatment of tobacco dependence (by promoting cessation of tobacco use)

Measures relating to the reduction of supply of tobacco

Eliminate illicit trade in tobacco products
Prohibition on sale of tobacco products to and by minors
Provision of support for economically viable alternative activities