CH NEWS
BENGALURU
Karnataka has prohibited the sale and distribution of products containing tobacco or nicotine across the State.
The Department of Food Safety and Drug Administration issued a notification on August 10, imposing the prohibition for one year from the date of issuance.
The department said stringent enforcement measures are being undertaken against products containing tobacco and/or nicotine. Food Safety Officers are conducting special inspections targeting the manufacture, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of gutkha, pan masala and other prohibited products.
The action has been taken under Section 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and Regulation 2.3.4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011.
Commissioner Srinivas K said the notification was issued on August 10 under the provisions of the law.
“The department is undertaking stringent enforcement measures against products containing tobacco and/or nicotine.” — Srinivas K, Commissioner, Food Safety and Drug Administration
Tobacco-Nicotine Ban: Key Points
- Ban: Sale and distribution of tobacco/nicotine products
- Effective: August 10, 2026
- Duration: One year
- Targeted products: Gutkha, pan masala and other prohibited products
- Enforcement: Manufacture, storage, transport, distribution and sale
Public urged to report violations
The department has appealed to citizens to report the manufacture, sale or distribution of prohibited tobacco and nicotine products to the concerned authorities. Officials urged the public to cooperate with enforcement teams and help prevent the circulation of such products. The initiative aims to strengthen public health safeguards and support the creation of a healthier, addiction-free Karnataka through strict implementation of the ban.
