Consultation meet on protection from tobacco and nicotine products held

Ranchi: The National University of Study and Research in Law (NUSRL), Ranchi, in collaboration with national and international public health experts, on Monday organised a national consultation on “Protection from Emerging Tobacco and Nicotine Products – Challenges and the Way Forward.”State health minister Irfan Ansari among several other dignitaries and experts attended the meeting which was aimed to create awareness among youth about the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine use, strengthen the capacity of law enforcement agencies for the effective implementation of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, and highlight the global regulatory framework surrounding emerging nicotine products such as nicotine pouches.In his keynote address, Ansari emphasised on the urgent need for strict public health policies and coordinated efforts to protect youngsters from addiction.He said, “Students here will go on to become distinguished lawyers and judges. The nation looks to the judiciary with trust and expectation. I am confident that all of you will perform your duties with honesty and responsibility. There must be coordination between the legislature, judiciary, and executive. Hundreds of lives are being lost due to addiction, and we must work collectively to prevent it.”Dr. L. Swasticharan, Deputy Director General and Director (Emergency Medical Relief), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, discussed on India’s regulatory journey in managing emerging nicotine products.