Srinagar: In order to discourage the consumption of tobacco products by the public, especially the younger generation of state, the Government today vide circular number HD/Coord/27/2017 dated 24/07/2017 has put a complete ban on the sale(including online sale) manufacture, distribution, trade, import and advertisement of Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS)/e-Cigarettes in the state with immediate effect.
Hon’ble Minister for Health & Medical Education, Bali Bhagat said that J&K is the fifth state in the country to implement such ban which will be a landmark moment in anti-tobacco measures initiated by the Government while as Hon’ble Minister of State for Health & Medical Education, Asiea Naqash stated that the Government is very serious and committed in implementing tobacco control measures across state.
Dr. Pawan Kotwal (IAS), Commissioner Secretary to Govt. Health & Medical Education Department, said that by thwarting the availability of e-cigarettes, the government is to curtail the habit of people using e-Cigarettes particularly school going kids who tend to buy e- cigarettes mostly through online shopping portals.
Dr Saleem-Ur-Rehman, Director Health Services, Kashmir who is also heading State Tobacco Control Cell said the department will use effective strategies to ensure the proper implementation along with other key stakeholders. State Tobacco Control Cell has been established in the state which is responsible for overall planning, implementation and monitoring of different activities and achievement falling under National Tobacco Control Programme. (KNS)
