Telangana bans gutkha, pan masala for one year

Hyderabad: The commissioner of Food Safety in Telangana has issued state-wide orders banning the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation and sale of gutkha and pan masala containing tobacco and nicotine. The prohibition, aimed at safeguarding public health, comes into force immediately and will remain effective for a year.

According to the order from the commissioner, the ban will be enforced under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 in the interest of public health.

“The Commissioner of Food Safety, Telangana State, hereby prohibits the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation, and sale of gutkha/pan masala which contains tobacco and nicotine as an ingredient packed in sachets/pouches/packages/containers, etc., or by whatever name it is called in the entire State of Telangana for a period of one year with effect from May 24, 2024,” the order read.

The move is part of ongoing efforts to address the severe health risks associated with the consumption of tobacco and nicotine products. The Commissioner of Food Safety emphasised the importance of this measure in reducing the prevalence of tobacco-related health issues in the state.

“This ban is a significant step towards curbing the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine on the population,” said the Commissioner in a statement. We urge all stakeholders to adhere to the regulation and support this initiative for the betterment of public health, he added.

Regular checks will enforce compliance

The ban will be strictly enforced, with authorities conducting regular checks to ensure compliance. Violators will face stringent penalties. The commissioner highlighted that this regulation is crucial for public health and that there will be no leniency in its implementation.

Some criticise, some hail ban

The notification has elicited varied responses from the public and the business community.

Health advocates lauded the decision as a critical move towards a healthier society. “This is a welcome step. Tobacco products pose significant health risks, and such measures are necessary to protect the public,” said Dr Ravi Kumar, a general physician from Sunshine Hospital in Secunderabad.

However, some local businesses expressed concern about the economic impact. “We understand the health risks, but this ban will affect our livelihood. We hope the government considers providing alternative solutions for those affected,” said a local vendor.

This measure aims to mitigate the adverse health effects of these products and promote a healthier environment for the state’s residents. The authorities are committed to ensuring strict compliance with this prohibition to achieve its intended benefits.