India has introduced a non-smoking ban in public places, as well as outlawing the advertising of tobacco products and the sale of cigarettes to young people.
According to the BBC website, the new law has been introduced under India’s Anti-Smoking Act, which was passed by the country’s parliament last year. Guidelines of enforcing the Act were reportedly issued in February, with all state governments given three months to publicise and implement the new rules.
The BBC reports that restaurants, hotels and other public places must declare non-smoking areas, and that anyone who breaks the law faces a fine of 200 rupees (around $4.50).
Those charged with enforcing the rules face a tough task – there are reportedly some 112 million smokers in India and 96 million who use chewing tobacco.
Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad
