As smoking is banned at public places from today, university campuses across the country are set for a real testing time.

University authorities are yet to formulate a concrete plan on how to enforce the ban on campuses, which are "breeding grounds" for future smokers.

Institutes like the Jawaharlal Nehru University and the Delhi University in the national capital have banned smoking much earlier to the government's notification.

However, the effect of such measures are yet to be seen on the campuses.

"Delhi University had already banned smoking a year ago. But I find students smoking even in front of patrolling police personnel," said Sonia, a law student of Delhi University. "I don't think the ban by the Centre is going to make any difference on the campus," she said.

JNU Campus Development Committee Chairman Manoj Pant said the university has banned smoking in the academic complex, classrooms and libraries.

"After the ban from October 2, the issue is that whether students can smoke in the hostels," he said. "We will put out circulars everywhere and ban smoking in common rooms and games rooms. But we are not sure if the ban extends to the hostel rooms and it will be difficult to impose such a ban there," he added.

DUSU President Nupur Sharma appeared optimistic about banning smoking on campuses.

"Last year, we put a ban on smoking. So the fresh ban by the government will not make much of a difference. But now, anyone can be fined for smoking at a public place. This will make the ban more effective," she said.

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