Rising Prices Fuel Counterfeit Cigarette Boom in Bihar's Munger

• Munger, historically Asia's first cigarette production hub, is now a center for counterfeit cigarettes due to rising prices.
• ITC Ltd.'s oldest factory, established in 1907, is located in Munger, highlighting the town's long association with the industry.
• Bihar Police and DRI are actively combating a well-organized network involved in manufacturing and distributing fake cigarettes across Bihar and neighboring states.
• A recent seizure of nearly four lakh counterfeit cigarette sticks worth Rs 50 lakh and Rs 85 lakh cash underscored the scale of the problem.
• Upcoming excise duty hikes on cigarettes from February 1 are expected to further fuel the counterfeit trade, prompting authorities to remain vigilant.

Why It Matters: Rising cigarette prices are driving a surge in counterfeit products in Munger, posing economic and health risks.