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Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has banned the sale of loose cigarettes and beedis, making it the first Indian state to do so. The move is meant for ensuring that customers see the graphic, public health warnings mandated on cigarette packaging. But according to some smokers, the government has taken this decision as they can generate more revenue in the form of tax from cigarette selling.
As per a notification issued by the state public health department on September 24, the state has imposed complete ban on selling of single stick loose cigarettes and beedis.
The decision is taken accordingly with sub-section (2) of section 7 of Cigarette and other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce Production, Supply & Distribution) Act, 2003, the order, signed by principal secretary (health) Dr Pradeep Vyas, said.
Studies have shown that a 10 percent rise in taxes results in an 8 percent drop in the number of smokers. But if people are allowed to buy a single cigarette, they do not feel the effect of higher taxes. Therefore this decision will get down the number of smokers.
