The Chinese government has a monopoly in the tobacco industry, which is a major contributor to the nation's coffers. In 2013, nearly 956 billion yuan ($157 billion) in taxes and profits was generated by the industry, a 10.5 percent year-on-year rise, Ling Chengxing, director of the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration, told a national work conference last month. The industry handed over 816 billion yuan in profits and taxes to the government last year, a 13.9 percent rise from 2012.

Wu Yiqun said that the glare of the media spotlight means a smoke-free two sessions could help to substantially raise public awareness about the dangers associated with the habit. At the very least, she said. "One should smoke in a civilized and polite way, never harming nonsmokers' rights to a smoke-free environment indoors."

While the reaction to the ban has generally been positive, some delegates urged their colleagues to show tolerance.

A CPPCC member who declined to be named said that quitting is difficult, especially for long-time smokers, and it will take time for them to stop entirely.

"The health hazards are well known, but don't be too harsh on the smokers. It really takes time to quit and accept what is now the social norm," he said, pointing out that times change and former State leaders, such as Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping, were smokers.

"To show respect for other people and the environment, I only smoke at the designated areas," he said.

Contact the writer at shanjuan@chinadaily.com.cn