IPL 2025: In a major move, the Indian government has instructed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to remove tobacco and alcohol ads from the upcoming Indian Premier League season.
The decision was made due to the rising number of non-communicable diseases in India. The government has asked the Indian Premier League to help address the country’s health issues by removing tobacco and alcohol ads.
Indian Government Orders BCCI to Remove Tobacco and Alcohol Ads from IPL 2025
The IPL is the most popular sports tournament in India, with a massive following of billions. Its promotions have a strong influence on viewers, and since tobacco and alcohol are harmful to health, the government wants to reduce their promotion.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has sent a letter to IPL chairman Arun Singh Dhumal, requesting the removal of tobacco and alcohol ads, along with surrogate ads, from the tournament.
The letter, written by Director General of Health Services, Mr. Atul Goel, also called for a ban on tobacco and alcohol products at all affiliated sports facilities and events in the future.
Why the Health Ministry Wants Strict IPL Advertising Guidelines
In the letter, Atul Goel explained that India is currently dealing with a significant rise in non-communicable diseases and urged the IPL to follow all the regulations to help address this issue.
India is experiencing a significant burden of non-communicable diseases- Cardiovascular diseases, Cancer, Chronic Lung Disease, Diabetes, Hypertension etc. which account for more than 70% deaths annually.
Tobacco and alcohol use are key risk factors for NCDs. We rank second in tobacco-related deaths worldwide; with nearly 14 lakh annual deaths while alcohol is the most common psychoactive substance used by Indians. This year the IPL Season starts on 22 March 2025. The Indian Premier League (IPL) being India’s most viewed sports event, direct or indirect promotion of tobacco/alcohol on any platform linked to sports send contradictory message to the public about health and fitness.
Therefore, IPL should strictly implement the regulations regarding:
- Banning all forms of tobacco/alcohol advertising, including surrogate advertisements, within the stadium premises where the games and related IPL games/events are held, as well as during telecast sessions on national television.
- The sale of tobacco/alcohol products in all affiliated events and sports facilities.
- Discourage promotion of sportspersons (including commentators) who directly or indirectly endorse products directly or indirectly linked to alcohol or tobacco.
Cricket players are role models for the youngsters for promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. IPL, being the largest sports platform in the country, has a social and moral obligation to promote public health and support health initiatives of the government.”
Check out the letter:
According to the Health Ministry, banning tobacco and cigarettes could help reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases, easing the pressure on the country’s healthcare system.
When will the IPL 2025 take place?
The IPL 2025 season will start on March 22, with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders taking on Royal Challengers Bangalore in the opening match at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The final will be held on May 25 in Kolkata.
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