Taking a proactive stance to safeguard the nation's youth from the hazards of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) usage, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a compelling appeal.
Recognizing the alarming trend of e-cigarettes being readily available at convenience and stationary stores near educational institutions, the UGC has underscored the urgent need for awareness campaigns.
Aligning with the provisions laid down in the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage and Advertisement) Act, 2019 (PECA, 2019), the UGC has called for concerted efforts to educate the populace, particularly young individuals, about the detrimental effects associated with e-cigarette consumption.
In addition to raising awareness, the UGC has urged Higher Educational Institutions to take proactive measures to curb the accessibility of e-cigarettes to students. Special drives and stringent checks are recommended to ensure compliance with the prohibition measures outlined by the Government of India in the aforementioned Act.
It is noteworthy that the Government of India, recognizing the urgent need to address the growing public health concern posed by e-cigarettes, has already taken decisive action through the enactment of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage and Advertisement) Act, 2019. This legislative measure underscores the government's commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its citizens, particularly the younger generation, from the adverse effects of e-cigarette usage.
