An estimated 3.25 lakh deaths every year in India are attributed to second-hand smoke/passive smoking, according to health experts. Non-smokers are affected too, and often have little control over their surroundings. • Dr. VK Paul, former Member of NITI Aayog, disclosed that India has progressed in reducing exposure to second-hand smoke, but the problem remains substantial due to population growth. He stressed that India needs to move toward 100% smoke-free public places and eliminate tobacco use. • Dr. VM Katoch, former ICMR Director General and President of the Tuberculosis Association of India, stated that passive smoking affected people in public places, workplaces and homes. • Dr. KK Talwar, cardiologist and Padma Bhushan awardee, shared national efforts to discourage tobacco use, such as taxation. He warned that passive smoking can be as harmful as active smoking. • Dr. Uma Kumar, Head of Rheumatology, AIIMS, New Delhi and recipient of the National Award for Science Communication, highlighted that second-hand smoke is particularly a cause of public health concern for women and children who cannot always choose where they live, work or spend time. #AIIMSNewDelhi #SecondHandSmoke #SmokeFree #TobaccoFreeIndia #PublicHealth