In an unpleasant development for cola companies in India, the health ministry has started discussions to create a framework for banning soft drinks advertisement with especial reference to electronic media. The cola companies might have been shocked hearing this news as this step has been taken despite the fact that the ministry has already given them clean chit on the pesticide controversy.
If the continuing advertising trends of cola companies are taken into account, Coca-Cola and Pepsi spend around Rs. 150 crore a year on television commercial. Moreover, the figure is much higher if the print ads and sponsorship are taken into account.
On the other hand, Information and broadcasting ministry has reportedly has said that enforcing a ban would need some changes in the advertising guidelines for television. This time around, only liquor and tobacco products are banned from being advertised.
