Our expectations from the Union Budget were quite high. The tax raise comes as a trivial effort as compared to the magnitude of the problem. We, though, appreciate Modi’s commitment towards a forming healthier and stronger India. The massive rise in taxes would distant the young generation, which falls for tobacco consumption due to contemporary influences, from the life threatening substance.
Tobacco products like gutkha and paan masala are already banned in Maharashtra and tax raise on cigarettes would be instrumental in wiping the tambaku menace from the state to a large extent. The decision, to an extent, has also been a morale booster for activists who continue crusading against tobacco consumption.
– Devika Chadha, VP – Operations, Salaam Bombay Foundation