KATHMANDU, Jan 20: To control and regulate the use of cigarettes and tobacco products, the government has introduced the provision of separate stores to sell cigarettes and tobacco products from March 14. A Cabinet decision on Thursday approved the proposal after five years of the Tobacco Product (Control and Regulatory) Act 2011.

All the shops selling tobacco products should be registered at the government agency concerned and get the license from the Revenue Office. The government has given the deadline of mid march for registration and license process.

As per the new law, tobacco products cannot be sold from retail shops and on the street. Ninety percent of all tobacco packaging space must have graphic warnings

The tobacco products have been the major reason for the 60 percent of non-communicable diseases. To discourage this, the health ministry has implemented the new provision.

According to Health Minister Gagan Thapa, tobacco selling shops should put a message outside the store that can be clearly seen and read. The message should include that tobacco products will not be sold to persons below 18 years and pregnant women.

Preparations are underway to issue a notice regarding the new provision of receiving license and registration for the sale of tobacco products.

If not registered as per the law, legal action would be taken against the shopkeeper and tobacco products will be seized along with fine.