
Many establishments have smoking areas without NOC, reveals survey
The Hindu
BMCRI’s survey found blatant violation of COTPA provision
A survey of Designated Smoking Areas (DSA) in the city has revealed blatant violation of the provisions under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), and that only 1.9% of facilities had a No-objection Certificate (NOC) from the BBMP to set up the DSAs.
The survey — conducted by Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI) in association with city-based NGO MAYA (Movement for Youth Awareness and Alternatives) — was done to mark the 13th anniversary of the ban on smoking in public places.

The draft policy for “Responsible Digital Use Among Students”, released on Monday by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, has recommended that parents set structured routines with clear screen-time rules and prioritise privacy, safety, and open conversation with children on digital well-being.












