Is the TN Government Escalating Action Against Tobacco Sales Near Educational Institutions?
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Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu government intensifies its crackdown on tobacco sales near educational institutions, reinforcing its commitment to public health. With joint inspection teams deployed and numerous violations identified, the initiative aims to create a tobacco-free environment for students. Citizens are urged to support these efforts on World No Tobacco Day.
Key Takeaways
- Tamil Nadu government increases enforcement against tobacco sales near schools.
- 391 joint inspection teams established for rigorous checks.
- Over 5.2 lakh shops inspected; many found violating laws.
- Significant fines imposed on offenders totaling Rs 39.14 crore.
- Efforts aimed at creating a tobacco-free environment for students.
Chennai, June 1 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu government has significantly enhanced its enforcement measures against the sale and distribution of tobacco products in proximity to schools and colleges, as part of its ongoing public health initiatives.
In an official statement, the government announced that it has directed the Tamil Nadu Police, the Food Safety Department, and local authorities to conduct targeted enforcement operations to ensure strict compliance with anti-tobacco laws in areas surrounding educational institutions.
To support these initiatives, a total of 391 joint inspection teams – composed of officials from the Police, Food Safety and Standards Department, and the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department – have been established to carry out regular inspections near schools and colleges across the state.
The production, storage, transport, distribution, and sale of oral tobacco products such as gutkha, pan masala, Cool Lip, and various forms of chewable tobacco are prohibited in Tamil Nadu under a Government Order issued in accordance with Section 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The state has been actively conducting a comprehensive enforcement campaign since November 2023.
According to government reports, the Food Safety Department has examined over 5.2 lakh shops and transport vehicles during this timeframe. Out of these, 13,642 shops were discovered to be selling banned tobacco products.
Authorities have confiscated 1.8 lakh kilograms of prohibited tobacco, including 5,258 kg of the product Cool Lip. The Food Safety and Standards Department has imposed total fines amounting to Rs 39.14 crore on offenders.
Simultaneously, the Tamil Nadu Police have filed 43,167 cases and seized more than 4.1 lakh kg of illicit tobacco products.
Reaffirming its dedication, the government stated: “The Tamil Nadu government emphasizes its steadfast commitment to safeguarding public health, especially for children and young adults. On this World No Tobacco Day, the state urges all citizens to support and collaborate with these enforcement activities and to strive for a tobacco-free environment around educational institutions.” This initiative highlights the state’s ongoing focus on minimizing tobacco use and ensuring a secure and healthy environment for students and youth.
Point of View
It is commendable that the Tamil Nadu government is taking decisive action to safeguard the health of its youth. The enforcement of anti-tobacco laws is crucial in creating a safer educational environment. The collaboration between various departments demonstrates a comprehensive approach to tackling this pressing public health issue.
NationPress
02/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is the Tamil Nadu government taking against tobacco sales?
The Tamil Nadu government has intensified enforcement against tobacco sales near educational institutions, deploying joint inspection teams and conducting routine checks to ensure compliance with anti-tobacco laws.
How many shops have been found selling banned tobacco products?
During inspections, 13,642 shops were identified as selling prohibited tobacco products.
What is the fine imposed on violators?
A total fine of Rs 39.14 crore has been imposed on violators by the Food Safety and Standards Department.
What types of tobacco products are banned in Tamil Nadu?
The sale of oral tobacco products such as gutkha, pan masala, and Cool Lip is banned in Tamil Nadu.
Why is this initiative important?
This initiative is crucial for protecting public health, especially for children and young adults, and aims to foster a tobacco-free environment around educational institutions.
