The Tamil Nadu Forum for Trader’s Associations has urged traders across the state to not sell tobacco on Friday as a mark of respect for World No Tobacco Day. This is also reportedly the first time such a move is being undertaken.
According to one report in The New Indian Express, Vellaiyan, president of the Tamil Nadu Vanikargal Sangangalin Peravai, was addressing a gathering when he announced the decision. “We have sent communication to all our members. No shop in the State will sell tobacco products tomorrow,” he reportedly said.
Dr V Shanta, chairperson of Adyar Cancer Institute, added that move was aimed at creating awareness and helping with measures to contain the increasing usage of tobacco products.
According to one report in The Hindu, she also urged the government to ensure speedy implementation of tobacco vendor licensing. The proposed vendor licensing is meant to crackdown on illegal sellers of tobacco products. Vendors who intend to sell tobacco will need a license to do so, failing which they will lose their license. This is in contrast to the existing plan where vendors can pay a fine and go back to tobacco sale, reported the newspaper.
According to the World Health Organisation, the focus of World No Tobacco Day this year is on “tobacco and lung health.” The campaign aims to increase awareness on: the negative impact that tobacco has on people’s lung health, from cancer to chronic respiratory disease, the fundamental role lungs play for the health and well-being of all people. “The campaign also serves as a call to action, advocating for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption and engaging stakeholders across multiple sectors in the fight for tobacco control.” says the WHO.
Source: The News Minute