Popular Indian resort town becomes smoke-free. Officials have announced that Shimla, a popular resort town once known for imported cigarettes and cigars, has joined three other major Indian cities in prohibiting smoking. Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal of the city’s Himachal Pradesh state also said that tobacco sales are banned within 100 yards of all educational institutions.

In addition, the measure bans the sale of tobacco or tobacco products to minors, with advertising, whether direct or indirect, also being unlawful. By 2011, the municipality plans a full campaign against drugs, alcohol, and smoking with anti-addiction centers that will be set up in local hospitals.

Bravo Shimla on this monumental decision in favor of public vitality! May all residents and visitors to your lovely city enjoy the clean, fresh environment and revitalized health of smoke-free living.