New Delhi, October 12, 2026: Lok Sabha MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat has called on young people to adopt healthy habits and avoid addictive substances such as e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, amid growing concerns over the use of new-age nicotine products. Her remarks were welcomed by Mothers Against Vaping (MAV), a collective working to protect children and youth from such products.
Sehrawat emphasised the risks associated with e-cigarettes, vapes and nicotine pouches, especially for young people facing academic or social pressures. She urged youth to seek support from parents and friends rather than turning to these substances, warning that their use at a young age could have serious consequences.
Call for enforcement of nicotine product ban
India’s Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019 prohibits the production, manufacture, import, export, sale, distribution, storage and advertisement of e-cigarettes, including ENDS, Heat Not Burn Products and e-Hookah. Sehrawat stressed the importance of not only enacting such laws but also ensuring their effective enforcement, noting the need for vigilance as new products emerge and societal awareness grows.
Youth participation and Fit India Movement
Highlighting the role of youth in building a healthier nation, Sehrawat spoke about the importance of fitness, sports, and initiatives like the Fit India Movement. She described young people as key stakeholders in the country’s development and encouraged them to focus on their studies, careers, and physical activity, while avoiding shortcuts that could harm their future.
Role of mothers and MAV’s advocacy
Sehrawat also acknowledged the efforts of Mothers Against Vaping, emphasising the role of mothers in early identification of nicotine use among children. She thanked MAV for its campaign and highlighted the importance of family engagement in guiding youth away from harmful substances.
MAV reiterated the need for effective enforcement of India’s prohibition on a broad range of nicotine products and called for greater awareness and coordinated action by parents, schools, authorities, healthcare professionals and society to protect young people from nicotine use.
Mothers Against Vaping (MAV) is a collective of mothers focused on raising awareness about new-age nicotine products, including vapes, e-cigarettes, Heated Tobacco Products, heat-not-burn devices and nicotine pouches, and advocates for stronger enforcement to protect children and youth.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a press release provided by the concerned organisation and has been edited for style and clarity with the assistance of AI tools. BusinessFortnight does not verify, endorse, or take responsibility for the claims, figures, or statements made in the original release.
