The Ministry of Health has issued a strong directive to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Indian Premier League (IPL), calling for a complete ban on all forms of tobacco and alcohol advertising during the upcoming IPL season.
This move aims to reduce the influence of these harmful substances on young viewers and promote public health initiatives.
The IPL is one of India’s most-watched sports events, attracting millions of viewers across the country.
The Health Ministry has emphasized that cricket players serve as role models for young fans, and the IPL, being the largest sports platform in India, carries a significant social and moral responsibility to support public health initiatives.
Key Demands:
The Ministry’s letter, dated March 5, outlines three key demands:
- Ban on Tobacco and Alcohol Ads: A complete prohibition on all forms of tobacco and alcohol advertising, including surrogate promotions, within stadium premises and during national television broadcasts.
- Prohibition of Sales: The sale of tobacco and alcohol products should be banned at all IPL-affiliated events and sports facilities.
- Endorsement Discouragement: Sportspersons, commentators, and other stakeholders should be discouraged from directly or indirectly endorsing brands associated with tobacco or alcohol.
Public Health Concerns:
India faces a significant burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic lung disease, diabetes, and hypertension, which account for over 70% of annual deaths.
Tobacco use alone is responsible for nearly 1.4 million deaths annually, making India the second-highest in tobacco-related fatalities globally.
Alcohol remains the most widely used psychoactive substance in the country, contributing to various health issues.
Impact on Advertising:
The ban on tobacco and alcohol ads could impact the advertising revenue of the IPL, as these industries invest heavily in high-profile events like the IPL.
However, the Health Ministry’s initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce the promotion of harmful substances and promote healthier lifestyles.
