In a bid to combat the pervasive threat of tobacco-related harm, a recent submission by Lakshmi Ramamurthy, Honorary Trustee at the Centre for Public Policy Research, advocates for a recalibration of India’s tobacco control policies towards harm reduction. Ramamurthy’s proposal highlights the necessity of distinguishing between different tobacco products and embracing innovative strategies to mitigate health risks.Ramamurthy’s critique focuses on India’s 2019 ban on e-cigarettes, noting the failure to discern between various classes of tobacco products. Despite acknowledging differences for taxation purposes in the 2021 finance bill, the ban remains indiscriminate. This oversight, she argues, undermines potential harm reduction initiatives.
The global conversation on tobacco control reached a crescendo during the Conference of the Parties tenth session (COP10) in Panama. Under the WHO Framework Convention for Tobacco Control (FCTC), delegates deliberated on forward-thinking measures, including harm reduction strategies. Notably, discussions emphasized the role of technology, such as e-cigarettes, in reducing harm compared to traditional cigarettes.
Critics point out India’s reluctance to embrace harm reduction despite mounting evidence of its efficacy. With approximately 100 million smokers, India faces a significant public health challenge, reflected in its staggering healthcare costs and mortality rates. Despite awareness efforts, cessation rates remain stagnant, underscoring the need for alternative approaches. Ramamurthy’s proposal urges Indian policymakers to adopt a risk-based approach, regulating tobacco products based on their toxicant profiles. By integrating safer alternatives and prioritizing smoking reduction, India can take strides towards alleviating the burden of tobacco-related diseases and deaths.
