Jharkhand Government Imposes One-Year Ban on Gutkha and Pan Masala  

Ranchi

In a major move aimed at promoting public health, the Jharkhand government has announced a complete ban on the manufacture, storage, sale, and distribution of tobacco and nicotine-laced gutkha and pan masala across the state. The ban, which comes into effect immediately, will remain in force for a period of one year.

Official Order Issued

The order was issued by the Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Department, Ajay Kumar Singh. According to the official notification, the restriction applies to all such products regardless of the brand name they are sold under, provided they contain tobacco or nicotine.

The state government exercised its powers under Section 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011, to implement this decision.

Strict Enforcement and Penalties

The Health Department has warned that any individual or establishment found violating this order will face strict legal action. Authorities have been directed to conduct raids and inspections to ensure that no prohibited tobacco products are being sold or stored in the state.

Focus on Public Health

This decision is seen as a significant step toward reducing the prevalence of tobacco consumption in Jharkhand, which is a leading cause of oral cancer and other serious health complications. Health experts and activists have welcomed the move, noting that a complete ban on distribution and sale is essential to curbing addiction among the youth.

The ban is effective from the date of the order’s issuance and will be reviewed after one year.