No smoke without adverts
Nepal's cigarette producers, supported by a Government media hungry for advertising revenue, are allowed to encourage the young and old to consume deadly smoke. The entry in 1987 of Surya Tobacco Company into the previously protected market was significant. Its advertising hardsell and superior marketing has left the public defenseless while propelling the company to be the country´s premier cigarette producer, far outstripping the former Government monopoly of Janakpur Cigarette Factory. While it is Surya's and Janakpur's business mandate to make money off the lungs of Nepal's population, what does one make of the sellout by the Government's radio, print and television media? A look at the data reveals the surprising information that public media can survive without cigarette (and liquor) advertising. Somebody just has to insist. Following is an investigation by Manisha Aryal.
"Nepal fascinates me.
While studying in Europe, I saw the Alps,
…but nothing to beat my Nepal, my pride.
1 remember the day father and I visited the Palace ofNuwakot.
I went there again!
The drive was still as enjoyable, the mountains as mysterious,
and the palace, …breathtaking!
Suddenly I heard a flute,,
..the same tune I had heard long ago.
I remembered the flute seller who ´d sit in a corner, playing.
I followed the sound and found him.
Do you remember me?
I picked one up
and played the same tune he had taught me years ago,
…and then he smiled!