Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)
Source : Indian Express
GS II : Government Policies and Interventions
What is discussed under Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)?
- What is Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)?
- e-cigarette market in India
Why in News ?
Juul Inc a dominant player in the e-cigarette or Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) market, agreed to pay $438.5 million to settle claims by 34 US states and territories which said its marketing led to an increase in teenage vaping.
What is Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)?
- E-cigarettes, e-hookahs, e-pipes, vapes and vape pens are some examples of electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) products.
Image by InspiredImages from Pixabay - They are electric devices that produce an aerosol made by heating a liquid, usually containing nicotine, flavourings and other chemicals.
- While some e-cigarettes look like regular cigarettes, others are slickly designed, often resembling everyday items like pens or USB drives.
Why it is used?
- To help smokers quit the habit or as a safer alternative to cigarettes.
What is the impact now?
- They have become very popular among young people, often attracting non-smokers as well.
- UK’s National Health Service data : There has been a steady increase in its use or vaping by children and teenagers in the country, as they are targeted by companies with bright packaging, exotic flavours and enticing names.
- US Centre for Disease Control : While e-cigarettes have the potential to help adult smokers if used as a complete substitute for regular cigarettes, they can still cause harm.
- Apart from highly addictive nicotine, e-cigarette aerosol can also contain harmful substances like heavy metals and cancer-causing agents.
e-cigarette market in India
- 2019 the Indian government banned the production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage and advertisement of all ENDS.
- All other e-cigarettes are currently banned in India.
- Punishment :
- Ranges from a fine of one to five lakh rupees, as well as imprisonment for 1 to 3 years.
- Found storing the devices shall face imprisonment of up to 6 months and/or a fine up to Rs 50,000.
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