KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Health and Population has announced its decision to take strict action against tobacco manufacturers found advertising their products at fairs and festivals, in violation of the Tobacco Control and Regulation Act 2011.
In an official statement, the ministry expressed serious concern over the increasing involvement of tobacco companies in promotional activities at public events. It emphasized that any such actions would be met with legal consequences as outlined in the Tobacco Control and Prohibition Act.
According to Section 10 of the Act, advertising of tobacco products is strictly prohibited across all public platforms, including electronic media such as newspapers, radio, TV, the Internet, and email. The law also bans promotions through hoarding boards, wall writings, logos, signs, or any other medium.
The ministry has urged all tobacco manufacturers to adhere to the latest guidelines on packaging and to comply with the existing legal framework to avoid legal action.
This decision comes in response to the alarming public health crisis in Nepal, where over 37,000 citizens die annually from diseases linked to tobacco use. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health and emphasized that strict enforcement of tobacco control regulations is a crucial step towards this goal.
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