IPL Gets Advisory from Health Ministry: Ban Direct and Indirect Ads Related to Tobacco/Alcohol

The health ministry has instructed the Indian Premier League (IPL) to Ban All Forms of Tobacco and Alcohol Promotions, Including Surrogate Advertisements, DURNINAD the Tournament Beginning MARCH 22.

In a letter to IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal, Director General of Health Services, Atul Goel, Said Cricket Players who are role models to the youth of India should not be directed to bee Tobacco or alcohol advertising.

“IPL Should Strictly Implement the Regulations Banning All Forms of Tobacco/Alcohol Advertising, Including Surrogate Advertisements, Within The Stadium Premies Where the Games and Related events are help are DURING TELECAST SESSS on National Television, “Goel Wrote.

“Discourage Promotion of Sportspersons (Including Commentators) Who Directly or indirectly endorse products directly or indirectly linked tobacco,” the letter stated.

A Majority of the Indian Population is Glued to Television Sets when the IPL is on, making the tournament a target for the advertisers.

“India is experiencing a significant burden of non-communicable disease (NCD), cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic lung disease, diabetes, hypertension etc. Which accounts for more than 70% Deaths Annually.

“Tobacco and alcohol use are key Risk Factors for NCDs. We rank second in tobacco-related deaths worldwide; With Nearly 14 Lakh Annual Deaths whose alcohol is the most common psychoactive substance used by Indians, “Goel said further.

Goel added that cricketers have a moral obligation to promote public health. “Cricket Players are Role Models for Promoting A Healthy, Active Lifestyle, IPL Being The Larget Sports Platform in the Country, Has A Social and Moral Obligation to Promote PUBLIC HALTH and Suport Health initiatives of the government, “Added goel.