Gujarat extends ban on gutkha, pan masala till next year: Production and sale of tobacco-nicotine products

Attempts to prepare gutkha by selling separate ingredients also fall under the scope of the ban This ban is not limited only to ready-made packets of gutkha or pan masala. Ingredients sold separately, which can be mixed to prepare gutkha or pan masala as a final product, will also remain under the ban. In other words, attempts to prepare gutkha by selling separate items will also fall under the scope of the ban. There is a provision for legal action against those who violate the rule.

Decision taken considering the risk of cancer The government's notification mentions research from institutions including the Tata Memorial Hospital and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. It warns that the consumption of gutkha and pan masala can increase serious health risks, including oral cancer. According to the 'Global Adult Tobacco Survey' (GATS) report, approximately 35% of adults in India consume tobacco, with 21% using smokeless tobacco.

Considering the protection of citizens' health and representations made by various NGOs, the Gujarat government has extended the ban for another year. The new period will come into effect from September 13, and the ban on gutkha and pan masala will remain in force until September 12, 2027.