In a significant move to safeguard people from the dangerous effects of tobacco, the state Food Safety commissioner has issued a notification banning the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation, and sale of Gutka and Pan Masala containing tobacco and nicotine throughout Telangana.

Aimed at Curbing Tobacco Consumption

The ban will be implemented with immediate effect and will be enforced for one year, stated the notification.

Gutka and Pan masala
Image Source: Brand Equity

The decision is aimed at reducing the consumption of tobacco and products infused with nicotine, as it is hazardous to health and regular consumption can cause several life-threatening diseases like cancer, Heart disease, COPD ( Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and many more.

However, the enforcement of this recent ban is uncertain, as the previous bans have been overturned by the Supreme Court, which makes the whole process a little doubtful.

"In the interest of public health, the Commissioner of Food Safety, Telangana State, hereby prohibits the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation, and sale of Gutkha and Panmasala which contain tobacco and nicotine as an ingredient. These products, whether packaged in sachets, pouches, packages, containers, or any other form, are banned in the entire State of Telangana for a period of one year, effective from May 24, 2024," stated the notification.

Telangana's statewide ban is likely to inspire other states to follow the same, paving the way towards a nationwide ban on tobacco.

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