KEY RESEARCH WORKS:
Title: A study on the reaction of women from households of bidi smokers to taxation and measures controlling bidi usage.
By Dr Sujitav Dash
Ms Gitsri Pani
Ms Reena Pradhan
Mr Saurav Dash
2023
Abstract:
This study investigates the response of women from families with bidi smokers towards taxation and regulatory control measures aimed at reducing bidi consumption.
The study aims to assess women’s attitudes towards increased taxation on bidi tobacco products, their perceptions of health implications associated with bidi use, and the socio-economic impact of bidi smoking on household spending priorities. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including structured interviews with women from 3000 families in rural villages and urban slum pockets across four states, along with intensive household surveys in selected villages.
Findings indicate a strong anti-bidi smoking sentiment among women, with 78% opposing bidi smoking. Despite 27 % of respondents consuming tobacco themselves, 79% expressed willingness to support political parties or governments advocating for tobacco bans. Moreover, above 90% of women respondents (age 21-50) prioritize health and educational spending for children over bidi consumption.
Financial implications reveal substantial spending on tobacco, exceeding investments in essential areas such as education, health, and sanitation. Women advocate for health education initiatives and support graphic health warnings on bidi packaging.
Policy recommendations include implementing comprehensive tobacco control measures, promoting health education campaigns, enforcing graphic health warnings, and investing in alternative livelihood opportunities. These findings underscore the urgent need for evidence-based policies to address the socio-economic and health implications of bidi smoking on women and families.
- This study is conducted by MEET, SRADHA, Centre for Development Action and Centre for Management Development (CMDIndia)
Title: A Study on Public Response on Taxation and Control of Bidi Usage*
By Dr Sujitav Dash
Ms Gitsri Pani
Ms Reena Pradhan
Mr Saurav Dash
Year: 2018
Abstract
This study explores the crucial aspect of assessing the opinions and attitudes of the public towards taxation and regulatory measures concerning bidis. Conducted in 2017-18 across selected regions in Orissa, Bihar, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand, the research aimed to gauge public sentiment regarding bidi taxation, smoking bans in public spaces, and potential governmental actions concerning the bidi industry.
Through a meticulously designed survey involving 3000 respondents, encompassing men, women, and youths equally, the study employs a combination of open-ended and closed-ended questions to elicit comprehensive insights. By examining key indicators such as willingness to support taxation, bans on public smoking, and political preferences based on governmental actions, the research offers valuable perspectives on public opinion regarding bidi control measures.
Results showed strong support for higher bidi taxes (81%) for health reasons, indicating recognition of associated risks. While 54% favored a complete bidi ban due to health effects, 76% supported banning bidi smoking in public places. Additionally, 68% would support governments increasing bidi taxes, and 72% favored banning public bidi smoking. Majority (73%) supported abolishing bidi’s cottage industry status for alternative employment, though 23% opposed. The findings underscore a nuanced public opinion on tobacco control policies, with considerations for health, regulatory measures, and economic impact. Addressing bidi-related health concerns requires comprehensive approaches integrating fiscal policies, regulatory measures, and alternative livelihood options to effectively mitigate tobacco-related risks and improve public health outcomes.
Moreover, the study challenges the conventional wisdom that politicians risk losing voter support by endorsing policies such as bidi taxation, suggesting that public health considerations may outweigh electoral concerns in certain contexts.
In essence, this research serves as a significant contribution to the discourse surrounding tobacco control policies, shedding light on the intricate interplay between public health imperatives, governmental actions, and public opinion in the context of bidi consumption. As policymakers navigate the complex landscape of tobacco regulation, the insights gleaned from this study offer valuable guidance towards the formulation of effective, evidence-based strategies aimed at safeguarding public health.
- This study is conducted by MEET, SRADHA, Centre for Development Action and Centre for Management Development (CMDIndia)
Title: Health Effects of Bidi Rolling on Bidi Workers in India: A Study*
By Dr Sujitav Dash (Principal Investigator)
Ms Gitsri Pani
Ms Reena Pradhan
Mr Saurav Dash
2016
Abstract:
Bidi rolling, a prevalent occupation in India exposes workers to various health hazards due to tobacco handling and exposure to harmful substances. This study investigates the health effects of bidi making on bidi rollers, emphasizing respiratory problems, exposure to toxic compounds, working conditions, economic vulnerability, social stigma, and regulatory enforcement.
Through a comprehensive literature review and mixed-methods approach, including quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, key findings emerged. The bidi rolling industry in India presents significant health risks, including respiratory ailments and reproductive issues for women workers. Additionally, over 70% of these women are victims of domestic violence, with 45% experiencing sexual abuse. Alternative employment opportunities are crucial, with 64% of bidi rollers expressing interest in quitting, citing low income, health concerns, and family debt. They seek 100 days of guaranteed home-based work under NREGA, mirroring the flexibility of bidi rolling. Over half would support a government abolishing the bidi industry’s cottage status, emphasizing the worsening economic conditions, low income, debt, and health issues. Concerns for children’s education and health drive their desire for change, with high dropout rates and poor attendance. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach integrating health, economic, and social interventions to uplift bidi rolling families towards sustainable livelihoods.
Recommendations include enforcing labor laws, improving access to healthcare, providing alternative livelihood opportunities, and raising awareness about health risks. These findings contribute to understanding the complex health challenges faced by bidi rollers and inform evidence-based interventions to improve their well-being and promote a safer work environment in the bidi industry in India.
- This study is conducted by MEET, SRADHA, Centre for Development Action and Centre for Management Development (CMDIndia)
Title: A study on bidi rollers’ response to taxation and measures controlling bidi usage.
By Dr Sujitav Dash (Principal Investigator)
Ms Gitsri Pani
Ms Reena Pradhan
Mr Artatrana Padhi
2017
Abstract:
The bidi industry, while a significant source of employment in various regions in India, finds itself at the intersection of conflicting interests regarding its health implications and its role as a livelihood provider. Rollers within the industry voice apprehensions regarding taxation and regulatory measures enforced by governmental authorities. This study explores the response of bidi rollers towards measures like taxation and control of bidi consumption in Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and West Bengal. Through a mixed-methods approach involving surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions, data were collected to examine awareness, perceived impact, coping mechanisms, compliance challenges, health outcomes, and support needs among bidi rollers.
Findings reveal varying levels of awareness and understanding of taxation and control measures, with significant impacts on livelihoods, compliance challenges, and health outcomes. Coping mechanisms employed by bidi rollers include livelihood diversification and community-based support networks.
Policy recommendations include targeted awareness programs, financial support, streamlined compliance procedures, health promotion initiatives, and stakeholder engagement mechanisms to enhance the inclusivity and effectiveness of regulatory interventions in the bidi industry.
This research contributes valuable insights for policymakers, public health experts, and stakeholders to develop evidence-based policies that balance regulatory goals with the socioeconomic needs of bidi rollers.
- This study is conducted by MEET, SRADHA, Centre for Development Action and Centre for Management Development (CMDIndia)
Title: Assessing the socio-economic and health impacts of Bidi rolling on bidi workers and their families and their response to alternative livelihood options*
By Dr Sujitav Dash (Principal Investigator)
Ms Gitsri Pani
Mr Saurav Dash
Mr Artatrana Padhi
2017
Abstract
This study examines the socio-economic and health effects of bidi rolling on bidi rollers and their families, aiming to understand their challenges and explore interventions for enhancing their well-being.
A structured questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data from bidi-rolling families, encompassing demographic information, socio-economic status, health effects, transitioning challenges, and policy recommendations.
Findings revealed that while bidi rolling contributes to household income, it perpetuates poverty due to low wages, job insecurity, and limited access to social security benefits. Moreover, bidi rolling can be associated with higher incidence of respiratory health issues and developmental delays among children in the families engaged in this occupation.
Transitioning to alternative livelihood options by these workers is hindered by financial constraints, lack of education, and social stigma.
Recommendations include enhancing access to education and training, strengthening social security measures, promoting alternative livelihoods, raising health awareness, supporting community empowerment, advocating for policy reforms, and monitoring interventions. Implementation of these recommendations can address the socio-economic and health challenges faced by bidi-rolling families, ultimately improving their well-being and resilience.
- This study is conducted by MEET, SRADHA, Centre for Development Action and Centre for Management Development (CMDIndia)