According to media reports, The Union Health Ministry has formally requested the Indian Premier League (IPL) to eliminate all forms of tobacco and alcohol advertising, including surrogate promotions, during the upcoming season slated to begin on 22 March. 

In a letter dated 5 March, Prof Dr Atul Goel, director General of Health Services, addressed to IPL chairperson Arun Singh Dhumal, underscoring the need to regulate such advertisements within stadium premises and during live telecasts. 

The ministry expressed concern that the IPL, being India's most viewed sports event, could send contradictory messages about health and fitness if it allows direct or indirect promotion of tobacco and alcohol products. 

Media reports also cited that the letter highlighted the significant role tobacco and alcohol play in the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country, which account for over 70% of annual deaths. 

It also underlined that cricket players serve as role models for youth, and their endorsement of such products could negatively influence young minds. 

The ministry urged the IPL to promote a healthy, active lifestyle and support government health initiatives by strictly implementing the ban on these advertisements and sales during the tournament. 

The DGHS writes to IPL regarding regulation of Tobacco and Alcohol advertisements including surrogate advertisementing and sales during IPL season starting 22 March pic.twitter.com/5CGG5TFXJf

— DGHSIndia (@DghsIndia) March 9, 2025

This move aligns with previous efforts by the Health Ministry to curb surrogate advertisements of tobacco products in sports venues. In August 2024, the ministry urged the BCCI and SAI to crack down on ads disguised as promotions for products like 'elaichi' mouth fresheners, often used as a front for tobacco brands.

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