In a historic move, the UK Parliament has passed a law making it illegal for anyone born after 2009 to ever legally buy cigarettes. The bold measure, inspired by similar policies in New Zealand, aims to phase out smoking entirely within a generation.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the law “will save lives, reduce NHS burdens, and create a healthier future for our children.”
Indian public health experts have praised the move, suggesting similar policies could be considered under the National Tobacco Control Programme, particularly among school-going youth in urban and semi-urban areas.
