In 2000-2001, tobacco contributed 12% of total excise revenue, of which 90% came from cigarettes (Ban on tobacco advertising by the Government of India, 2001). The tobacco industry also has 26 million direct and indirect employees. Getting rid of advertising would surely result in some of their jobs being laid off as sales would be affected by the lack of advertising and promotion. Although those in favor of the ban claim that cigarettes contribute only 0.14% to India's GDP, they cannot argue that banning advertising would cause many employees to lose their jobs. It is also questionable whether or not the government has the right to impose such a ban. The Supreme Court of Canada even declared: “The State seeks to control the thoughts, beliefs and behavior of its citizens along the line it deems acceptable. This form of paternalism is unacceptable in a free and democratic society.” (Government of India Ban on Tobacco Advertising, 2001). Adult consumers are aware of the health risks and have the choice to continue using tobacco products if they wish. People are allowed to drink alcohol, which poses health risks as well as temporary impairment of judgment and rational thinking, but it is legal and advertised; those who oppose the ban wonder why we are