Srinagar, Mar 8:  The government decision to increase VAT on tobacco products from 13.5% to 25% on cigarettes and related items like cigars has been hailed by Jammu & Kashmir Voluntary Health and Development Association (JKVHADA).
 “This is a commendable step taken by the J&K government to put a control on tobacco consumption,” the VHAI, Executive Director, AM Mir told a news conference at Ahdoos Hotel.
 “The government has in fact gone a step ahead and even  specified that the additional revenue generated from this measure will be utilized in a kind of health cess to meet the needs of the State Cancer Treatment and Management Fund),” the former IAS official added.
 “The Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) India 2009 – 10 released by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) conveys that about (26.6%) population of Jammu & Kashmir is using tobacco product in one or the other of its form. Jammu & Kashmir has 12% cigarette smokers, 3.8% bidi smokers and 8.0% use smokeless tobacco. The burden of tobacco usage in J & K is very high, one of the highest prevalence in the Northern Region,” he informed.
 “We would like to thank Governor, Chief Minister, Finance Minister, Finance Secretary, Eco. Adv to FM, Principal Secretary to CM, Divisional Commissioners of Jammu and , Kashmir, DC Srinagar and Budgam, Print and Electronic Media persons for supporting the cause.”

Lastupdate on : Tue, 8 Mar 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Tue, 8 Mar 2011 18:30:00 GMT
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