Internet access, smartphones and televisions have significantly boosted over-the-top (OTT) movies and web series viewing in India, especially among youth. Despite restrictions, OTT platforms continue to promote tobacco products. India has recently enforced the revised OTT Rules 2023 effective September 1, 2023, to counter tobacco promotion in OTT shows. This study explored compliance with the OTT Rules 2023 in popular movies and web series on select OTT platforms in India.
Analysis of 29 movies and 31 web series from seven popular OTT platforms found that portrayal of tobacco imagery in OTT shows is prevalent and not compliant with the OTT Rules 2023. Monitoring and stricter enforcement of the OTT Rules should be given priority to protect viewers from tobacco promotion in OTT shows.
Published March 7, 2024
Sign up to receive our monthly Research Roundup email, which offers a selection of new public health research from major journals.
Recent Abstracts
Effects of Heat on Early Childhood Development
Sportswashing through Media: Coca-Cola’s Olympic Play – A Research Report
Mais Dados Mais Saúde: Experiência De Discriminação Cotidiana Pela População Brasileira
What’s in Our Food?
Mais Dados Mais Saúde
Monitoramento de Estratégias pelo Fim da Violência contra Crianças e Adolescentes
The Power of Storytelling: Guidance for the Creation of Testimonials
Lead Poisoning and Early Childhood Development
Prioritizing Evidence Gaps: Air Pollution and Health Impacts of Climate Action
Raising Alcohol Taxes to Reduce Harm: Fact Sheets for Brazil