BACKGROUND: Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death globally, with over 80% of users in low-income countries. The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, aims to regulate tobacco use in India. Rajasthan has been at the forefront of implementing COTPA in the country. This study assesses compliance with key COTPA provisions in 13 districts of Rajasthan in January, 2024.
METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted to assess compliance of Sections 4 (public use of tobacco products), 5 (TAPS Ban), 6 (Tobacco-free educational institutions and sale to minors), and 7 (PHW compliance) of COTPA across 13 districts in Rajasthan, using a cluster sampling approach, representing rural and urban areas within selected districts. Assessment was done through a checklist derived from COTPA provisions and observational data were gathered through site visits along with photographic evidence.
Indicators included the presence of prescribed "No Smoking" signages, tobacco advertisements, observed sales to minors, and packaging health warning compliance. Observers followed a non-intrusive protocol and noted violations without direct interaction. Quantitative analysis was performed to evaluate adherence levels and identify gaps in enforcement.
RESULTS: The study found 93% compliance with prescribed "No Smoking" signage in public places, and 96% adherence at transportation hubs and government offices. Tobacco advertisements violated norms at 11% of the locations. Sales to minors were rare, but observed at 2 separate locations, while tobacco products were sold near 21% of educational institutions surveyed, indicating enforcement gaps.
CONCLUSIONS: The study highlights significant compliance with COTPA in transportation hubs and government offices but reveals enforcement gaps near educational institutions and in regulating tobacco advertisements. Strengthened monitoring and targeted interventions for the identified gaps are essential to ensure full adherence and advancing Rajasthan’s progress towards comprehensive tobacco control and public health protection.