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The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has made a significant request to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to prohibit all types of alcohol and tobacco ads in Indian Premier League (IPL) stadiums in an effort to save public health from tobacco danger. The action is part of the government's larger campaign to prevent substance misuse and promote healthy lifestyles among young generation.
For a long time, the Health Ministry has campaigned for stronger laws governing the promotion and advertising of dangerous drugs. Since cricket is the most popular sport in India, the IPL is a powerful platform that can be seen by millions of people in stadiums, on television, and online. The ministry thinks that by making alcohol and tobacco brands less visible during IPL games, their action to reduce the tobacco advertisement will avoid the unhealthy lifestyle choices.
"The IPL has a huge fan base, and ads for alcohol and tobacco products either directly or indirectly influence young minds," said a senior health official.
Numerous studies have shown the detrimental effects of alcohol and tobacco promotion on public health, making it a controversial topic on a global scale. The World Health Organization (WHO) has previously noted that the use of these goods is encouraged by advertising, which raises the danger of long-term health problems.
Even though the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) of India forbids the direct promotion of tobacco products. Similarly, alcohol advertisements are prohibited on television, but brands frequently use sponsorship deals and indirect promotions during high-profile events like the Indian Premier League.
The Health Ministry's request has not yet received an official answer from the BCCI, which supervises the IPL. However, prohibiting these ads could have a financial impact because
Sponsorship agreements from the alcohol and tobacco industries greatly increase the league's revenue. The cricket board's decision may face several challenges because a number of IPL associations and stadiums have agreements with alcohol and tobacco companies.
Industry observers say if it chooses to implement the ban then the BCCI may need to find other sponsors from the fitness sector, health-conscious businesses, and government-backed health programs.
A critical conversation on ethical advertising in sports has been encouraged by the Health Ministry's request, which may establish an example for other Indian and worldwide sports leagues, because it gives the expanding awareness about health and also to secure the young generation's health from the danger of tobacco.
By presenting a healthier message to its enormous fan base, the IPL might become an example for ethical sports advertising if the BCCI complies. The league's decision to put public health above of business interests will be made in the upcoming weeks.
