Telangana Government Imposes One-Year Ban on Gutka and Pan Masala

Starting May 24, the state government of Telangana has enacted a one-year ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation, and sale of Gutka and Pan Masala containing tobacco and nicotine. This measure, announced by the Commissioner of Food Safety, aims to protect public health by addressing the severe risks associated with these smokeless tobacco products.

The official order from the Commissioner of Food Safety specifies that the ban will be enforced under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The prohibition extends to all forms of Gutka and Pan Masala, including sachets, pouches, packages, and containers. The notification emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the ban, covering any form or packaging of these products within the state.

The announcement was made on the social media platform X, it said, “The Commissioner of Food Safety has issued a notification prohibiting the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation, and sale of Gutka/Pan Masala which contains tobacco and nicotine, with effect from May 24, 2024.”

The decision to impose this ban derives from the significant health risks posed by the consumption of Gutka and Pan Masala. These products are infamous for their links to serious health conditions, including oral cancer and oral submucous fibrosis. The state government's move is seen as a proactive step to reduce the prevalence of these health issues among the population.

Telangana aims to mitigate the adverse health effects associated with tobacco and nicotine consumption by prohibiting the availability of these products. The ban on Gutka and Pan Masala is expected to be a crucial measure in safeguarding the well-being of Telangana’s residents. Public health advocates have welcomed the decision, highlighting its potential to significantly reduce tobacco-related illnesses and improve the overall health standards in the state.

The enforcement of this ban will be closely monitored to ensure compliance and effectiveness in achieving its health objectives.

The Commissioner of Food Safety has issued a notification prohibiting the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation and sale of 𝐆𝐮𝐭𝐤𝐡𝐚 / 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐚 which contains tobacco and nicotine, with effect from 24.05.2024.#HealthyTelangana #NicotineBan pic.twitter.com/IjucPX5HPa
— Commissioner of Food Safety, Telangana (@cfs_telangana) May 26, 2024