The Global Adult Tobacco Survey, India 2016-17 highlights reduced secondhand smoke exposure, improved air quality, and less cigarette waste, benefiting vulnerable groups. However, experts stress that reducing public smoking alone is insufficient without stronger enforcement and awareness.

Despite legal measures, the Report on Tobacco Control in India 2022 reveals inconsistent enforcement, with cigarette shops displaying smoking triggers and QR-code complaints indicating frequent violations. Weak enforcement sustains tobacco use and poses long-term health risks.

Experts warn that smoking, combined with genetics, diet and history of tobacco use, greatly increases cancer risk. Modern cigarettes may contain new carcinogens, worsening health despite reduced smoking rates.

Stronger enforcement, continuous awareness and stricter regulations are crucial to making India's smoking ban truly effective in protecting health and the environment.