The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) will host a National Consultation on "Implementation of Testing Tar, Nicotine, and Carbon Monoxide (TNCO) in Tobacco Products in India" on October 11, 2024, at Hotel Mountview, Chandigarh. This event will gather policymakers, health experts, researchers, and advocates from notable organizations, including the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), PGIMER, and IIT.

This consultation is part of a project sanctioned by MoHFW aimed at strengthening National Tobacco Testing Laboratories (NTTLs) in accordance with the WHO's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). Dr. Sonu Goel, the Principal Investigator, emphasizes that this initiative enhances analytical and research capacities in the Southeast Asian region.

Chief Guest Dr. L. Swasticharan, along with other esteemed guests, will participate in discussions addressing current gaps in tobacco product testing in India and strategies for implementing a robust testing regime. Key topics will include international best practices, challenges, and a consensus on the need for TNCO testing.

This consultation aligns with India's commitment to FCTC Articles 9 and 10, which focus on testing and measuring tobacco content and ensuring transparency on packaging. India has already made strides in tobacco control through various initiatives, including the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act and mandatory pictorial warnings on tobacco products.

The event aims to establish a comprehensive approach to TNCO testing, promoting better health outcomes for the population.