INTRO
Gujarat has extended its ban on tobacco and nicotine-laced gutkha and pan masala for another year, citing public health concerns and the risks of tobacco consumption.
GANDHINAGAR
Gujarat has extended its ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution and sale of gutkha and pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine for another year. The renewed prohibition will come into effect from September 13, 2026, and remain in force until September 12, 2027. The Commissioner of Food Safety issued the notification on August 31, citing public health concerns and representations received from various non-governmental organisations.
The ban, which has been in place in Gujarat since 2012, will continue to cover tobacco and nicotine-laced gutkha and pan masala regardless of the name under which they are sold. The order also applies to ingredients marketed separately when they are intended to be mixed later to prepare prohibited products.
Authorities have been directed to take action against violations involving the manufacture, storage, distribution or sale of products covered under the order. Officials warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone found violating the prohibition. The extension will ensure that the restrictions continue without a break after the current period ends.
The notification cited research by Tata Memorial Hospital, the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and HAMER, which indicated that gutkha and pan masala consumption is carcinogenic and can substantially increase the risk of oral cancer. The government said health protection remained a key reason for continuing the restrictions.
The notification also referred to findings from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey. According to the cited data, 35 per cent of adults in India consume tobacco, while 21 per cent use smokeless tobacco. With the latest order, Gujarat will continue its long-standing restrictions on tobacco-laced gutkha and pan masala for another year, while enforcement agencies remain responsible for preventing violations.