In a significant development, the High Court of Punjab and Haryana has cleared the way for the sale of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) in retail outlets across India. Formerly classified under the Poisons Act, this decision reflects a pivotal shift in perception, recognizing the efficacy of NRT as a smoking cessation aid.

The ruling has been met with praise from experts, who see it as a potential game-changer in empowering millions of smokers striving to quit. Dr. Chandrakant Pandav, a recipient of the Padma Shree award, underscores the crucial role of NRT in supporting quitters, facilitating a gradual reduction in nicotine dependence and aiding in the journey towards a smoke-free life.

Dr. Niranjan Naik, Director of Fortis Memorial Research Institute, lauds the decision's implications for public health, emphasizing the importance of increased NRT availability. Broader access to NRT, he argues, has the potential to significantly enhance health outcomes and foster a healthier future for communities nationwide.

According to the World Health Organization, smoking-related illnesses claim the lives of over 10 lakh Indians annually. NRT, available in various forms such as gums, patches, and inhalers, delivers controlled doses of nicotine to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, thereby assisting individuals in their efforts to quit smoking.