Britain’s u-turn on vapes upholds India’s early ban. But the country needs a more comprehensive view on tobacco control
Britain's ban on vapes for younger generations validates India's 2019 ban but highlights the need for stricter enforcement and a broader tobacco control strategy.Summary
Britain's recent generational ban on vaping, prohibiting sales to those born after 2009, marks a significant shift in global public health policy. This reversal, which undermines the previous narrative that vapes are a safe harm-reduction tool, validates India's early 2019 prohibition. However, the article argues that India's ban is insufficient because it lacks effective enforcement. Despite the law, a 2025 study found a 14% vaping prevalence, driven by a grey market, inconsistent regulations, and the normalization of vaping by celebrities and media. The author contends that India must close legal loopholes, hold platforms accountable, and adopt a more comprehensive approach to tobacco control, including addressing the bidi and smokeless tobacco sectors, to truly protect public health.
(Source：Down To Earth)
