Davanagere, a city in Karnataka, India, has become the first in the state to introduce the Tobacco Vendor Licensing (TVL) system to regulate the sale of tobacco products in commercial shops. The initiative is being implemented by the Davanagere City Corporation, with support from the Health and Family Welfare Department. The move comes after persistent pressure from organizations such as the Indian Medical Association and child rights activists. The TVL system aims to curb illicit trade, increase revenue for the city, and restrict access to tobacco products for individuals under 18 years old. Currently, there are around 2000 shops in Davanagere selling cigarettes, bidis, and other tobacco products. As part of the TVL process, licenses have already been issued to 30 shops, and more than 100 shop owners have applied for licenses. The license fee is ₹500, and it is valid for five years. Licenses for smaller shops will be issued in the second phase with the permission of the City Corporation authorities. Officials from the health department state that the licensing system will help reduce easy access to tobacco products for children and improve revenue for the city. Healthcare professionals and economists have also emphasized the importance of TVL compliance, as tobacco is often seen as a gateway to drug use. Traders who receive licenses must adhere to the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) rules, which prohibit the display of tobacco advertisements and the sale of tobacco products to individuals under 18. Shop owners must also display warning signs about smoking being an offense in Kannada and keep their premises free of matchboxes, lighters, and ashtrays. Additionally, they are required to maintain records of tobacco product purchases. In case of any violations, penalties will be imposed. The enforcement of licensing is overseen by an Urban Tobacco Control Committee led by the Commissioner of the City Corporation. NGOs such as Karuna Jeeva and Kalyan Trust are also involved in the project implementation process. While several states in India, including Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, and Kerala, have already enforced vendor licensing for tobacco, it has now become a reality in Davanagere.