Archive · 5 Sep 2025
India's Tobacco Control: Ignoring Smokeless Users' Needs
Imagine people in India using cheap tobacco to get through tough work.
These products are very dangerous and can cause cancer.
But, the people who make the rules about tobacco often don't talk to these users.
Instead, they focus on banning some products while letting the harmful ones stay.
Some people want safer options and a voice in the decisions.
They look at places like Sweden, where tobacco is regulated safely, and want the same in India.
They want to be included in decisions and have access to better, safer choices to help improve their health.
Millions of people in India use smokeless tobacco despite health risks.
Current tobacco control policies often ignore the needs of users.
Protesters are calling for inclusion and access to safer nicotine alternatives.
Inclusion and regulation, as seen in Sweden's snus model, are proposed solutions.
Users want to be included in the policy-making process and access to safer alternatives.
- Who
- Tobacco users in India and global tobacco control advocates.
- What
- The exclusion of smokeless tobacco users from tobacco control policies and the need for inclusive regulation and access to safer alternatives.
- When
- Recent tobacco control conference in Geneva
- Where
- India, with examples from Sweden.
- Why
- Current policies ignore the needs of tobacco users, particularly regarding access to safer products and inclusion in policy-making.
- Key Products Mentioned
- Gutka, khaini, zarda, snus
- TSNA Levels
- Smokeless tobacco products contain high levels of TSNAs (cancer-causing chemicals).
- Focus of Protest
- Sweeping bans on lower-risk nicotine alternatives
- Regulation in Sweden
- Snus is sold under tight checks, including TSNA and microbial limits.
- Inclusion in Public Health
- ASHA workers lead maternal care, and local influencers support vaccine campaigns.