CSIR Director General, N Kalaiselvi, revealed the breakthrough on Monday, highlighting the potential benefits of this low-nicotine tobacco variety. She stated, “As a result, the end-user may use tobacco but it’ll minimize its impact on their health.”
She said the inspiration for this innovative approach came after Prime Minister Modi expressed interest in exploring ways to develop a tobacco variety that would be less harmful to consumers. Following this directive, the Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants laboratory, which falls under the CSIR, took up the challenge and succeeded in creating this new variety aimed at reducing the health risks associated with tobacco use.
Kalaiselvi further shared that a preliminary study has already demonstrated a significant reduction in nicotine content, ranging from 40% to 50%. However, the research team at the laboratory is not stopping there. They are committed to further refining this low-nicotine tobacco variety, with the ambitious goal of reducing nicotine content by an even more substantial margin, aiming for a reduction of 60-70%.
This groundbreaking development in the field of tobacco research holds promise for individuals who use tobacco products. It signifies a significant step towards addressing the public health concerns related to tobacco consumption. As further research and refinements are conducted, the potential for creating safer alternatives for tobacco users becomes increasingly tangible.
