Key Points
- NUSRL convened a national consultation with public health experts.
- Discussion focused on youth protection and emerging nicotine products.
- Minister Ansari urged stronger health policies and coordination.
- Meeting addressed enforcement of the 2019 e-cigarette prohibition law.
- Health ministry official outlined India’s regulatory experience.
2Firsts, December 2, 2025 — According to Times of India, the National University of Study and Research in Law (NUSRL) in Ranchi hosted a national consultation on “Protection from Emerging Tobacco and Nicotine Products – Challenges and the Way Forward,” with participation from domestic and international public health experts.
State Health Minister Irfan Ansari attended the meeting, which aimed to raise awareness among youth about the harms of tobacco and nicotine use and strengthen law enforcement capacity for implementing the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019. The discussion also highlighted global regulatory approaches to emerging nicotine products such as nicotine pouches.
In his keynote, Ansari stressed the need for strict public health policies and coordinated action to safeguard young people. He encouraged students to uphold integrity in their future legal careers and emphasized cooperation between the legislature, judiciary, and executive to address addiction-related harms.
Dr. L. Swasticharan from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare outlined India’s regulatory experience with emerging nicotine products.
