GoM undecided on pictorial warning on tobacco products

The Group of Ministers on Tobacco failed to arrive at any decision on pictorial warnings on cigarette and packets of other tobacco products.

The Group of Ministers on Tobacco on Tuesday failed to arrive at any decision on pictorial warnings on cigarette and packets of other tobacco products.

Briefing reporters after the meeting of the GoM headed by External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Union Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss said, "no decision has been taken yet".

"Discussions were held on various issues including providing alternative employment to workers involved in tobacco cultivation and bidi making," he said.

The GoM had cleared pictures of lungs and scorpions to be used as warnings on tobacco products. But implementation of the same is facing hurdles because of opposition from the tobacco lobby.