EAC-PM Reports Rise in Tobacco Use and Calls for Multi-Pronged Control Measures

A working paper by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) reports a significant rise in tobacco consumption and expenditure in India between 2011-12 and 2023-24, with a 55% increase in urban and 33% in rural households. This trend raises concerns about public health impacts and fiscal sustainability due to higher healthcare demands. The paper recommends strengthening tobacco taxation, enforcing regulations against illicit sales, expanding awareness campaigns, and integrating preventive counseling in primary healthcare to address these challenges.