Use of tobacco imposes serious consequences on society and economy: PM

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Wednesday said the use of tobacco imposes serious consequences on the society and economy of any nation.

Addressing the 'International Conference on Public Health Priorities in the 21st Century: The Endgame for Tobacco' through a recorded message, Dr. Singh said that use of tobacco claimed about 100 m deaths in the 20th century.

"Use of tobacco imposes serious consequences on the society and economy of any nation," he said.

Dr. Singh also stated that tobacco control needed a combination of multi-sectoral policies and public awareness to contain it.

"India is committed to a tobacco-free society," he said, while highlighting the initiatives of the government which has banned sale of gutka in 33 states and Union Territories.

The Prime Minister noted that we must move towards developing strategies for tobacco growers for their alternative livelihoods, as part of strategy towards a tobacco-free society.