The Indian Ministry of Health has made amendments to its rules, requiring Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms to display anti-tobacco warnings during the broadcasting of programs. OTT platforms refer to streaming services that deliver content over the internet, bypassing traditional broadcast channels.
The move by the Health Ministry aims to address the concern of tobacco promotion through media platforms. The new rules mandate that OTT platforms display a health warning for a minimum of 30 seconds at the beginning and middle of any content that portrays tobacco or its products. The warning should cover at least 30% of the screen and display the message in English or the language of the content being shown.
These amendments align with India’s efforts to control and reduce tobacco consumption, given its significant impact on public health. The country has been implementing various measures to combat tobacco usage, including bans on smoking in public places, graphic health warnings on tobacco products, and restrictions on tobacco advertising.
By extending these regulations to OTT platforms, the Health Ministry aims to ensure that these digital platforms also contribute to raising awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco. It recognizes the increasing popularity of OTT services in India and their influence on the younger generation, making it crucial to include anti-tobacco messages during the programming.
It’s important to note that the article does not provide specific details regarding the implementation timeline or potential penalties for non-compliance. Therefore, it would be advisable to refer to official government sources or subsequent updates for more precise information on the implementation of these rules and their enforcement.
