As per WHO tobacco use is a major risk factor for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, over 20 different types or subtypes of cancer, and many other debilitating health conditions. Every year, more than 8 million people die from tobacco use. Most tobacco-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries such as India, which are often targets of intensive tobacco industry interference and marketing.

In this context SRKPS is currently working on Advancing Comprehensive Tobacco control in Rajasthan through institutional development, capacity building and effective implementation of MPOWER measures in 13 districts of the state. The project is funded by The International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Inc (The Union) and implemented by SRKPS. The project aims to make 13 districts of Rajasthan (Jaipur, Sikar, Dausa, Alwar, Kota, Bundi, Baran, Chittorgarh, Jodhpur, Pali, Jalore, Nagaur& Ajmer) compliant to India’s tobacco control legislation (COTPA, 2003) through institutionalization, capacity building, implementation and enforcement. In addition the project is to support the state in developing comprehensive guidelines under FCTC 5.3 to counter tobacco industry interference. Project also aims to counter the newly emerging challenges to tobacco control like the such new products (ENDS, HNB Tobacco and others) and support the and district administration in introducing vendor licensing and its effective implementation throughout the state.