The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) has called on the Indian Premier League (IPL) to ban all forms of tobacco and alcohol advertisements from upcoming sports events. In a letter dated March 5, Prof. (Dr.) Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, urged IPL Chairperson Arun Singh Dhumal to regulate tobacco and alcohol advertisements, including surrogate ads and sales, during the upcoming cricket season starting March 22.
The ban would extend to both stadium premises and live telecasts on television. Goel emphasized that the IPL, being India’s most viewed sports event, should not promote tobacco or alcohol, as it sends a contradictory message about health and fitness.
Goel cited that tobacco and alcohol are major contributors to the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country. Cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic lung disease, diabetes, and hypertension account for over 70% of deaths annually. India ranks second in tobacco-related deaths worldwide, with nearly 1.4 million annual deaths, while alcohol is the most common psychoactive substance used by Indians.
The letter, also addressed to the Board of Control for Cricket in India, asked IPL officials to strictly implement the regulations to ban all forms of tobacco and alcohol advertising, including surrogate ads, within stadium premises and during telecast sessions on national television. The sale of tobacco or alcohol products must also be regulated in all affiliated events and sports facilities.
Additionally, the letter sought to discourage the promotion of sportspersons, including commentators, who directly or indirectly endorse products linked to alcohol or tobacco. Goel stressed that cricket players are role models for youngsters, and promoting tobacco or alcohol products can negatively impact their minds. Instead, players should promote a healthy, active lifestyle. Goel urged the IPL to share a social and moral obligation to promote public health and support government health initiatives.
