Nationwide Campaign Launched To Combat Vaping & E-Cigarette Menace

A nationwide campaign titled ‘Please STOP This’ has been launched to tackle the growing menace of novel nicotine delivery products, including vapes, e-cigarettes, heat-not-burn devices, and nicotine pouches. Organised by Mothers Against Vaping (MAV), a collective of concerned mothers, the initiative aims to protect children and youth from falling prey to these harmful products.

BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla, speaking at the event, outlined a “4S strategy” to combat the issue. “The whole of ‘Samaj’ or Indian society must step in to stop this menace,” he said. Poonawalla emphasised the need for collective efforts from society, government enforcement agencies, positive engagement on social media, and encouraging sports as a healthy alternative for youth.

The launch event also featured Padma Shri awardee Dr. Deepa Malik, who underscored the urgent need to counter the deceptive practices of nicotine product manufacturers. "The findings of the MAV study reveal the dangerous tactics used to target vulnerable populations, particularly children and adolescents," she said. Dr. Malik stressed the importance of vigilance from parents, teachers, and policymakers in safeguarding the health of future generations.

Mallika Nadda, Chairperson of the Special Olympics Asia Pacific Advisory Council, expressed her support via a video message. “It is crucial to highlight the ill effects of electronic cigarettes on children. This campaign is a vital step toward dispelling myths and raising awareness,” she said.

The MAV study powering the campaign details ten strategies employed by manufacturers to infiltrate the Indian market despite the government’s 2019 ban on e-cigarettes. These include tactics like misleading policymakers, using social media influencers, and targeting youth with attractive flavors and designs. The study also highlights the alleged use of front groups, media misinformation, and sponsorship of biased research to downplay health risks.

The campaign launch included a panel discussion featuring education and parenting experts, such as Madhur Gupta, Principal of Genesis Global School, and Dr. Bhawna Barmi, a renowned psychologist. The panel addressed the importance of collective efforts from schools, families, and communities in combating the allure of vaping.

MAV’s ‘Please STOP This’ campaign calls on policymakers, healthcare professionals, educators, and parents to remain vigilant and proactive in countering the influence of vested interests and protecting young lives from addiction.