Gandhinagar (Gujarat News):
Complete Ban on Gutkha in Gujarat:The Gujarat government has officially announced a complete ban on gutkha in Gujarat along with other tobacco and nicotine-based pan masala products. The notification, issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and its Regulations of 2011, states that the sale, storage, and distribution of gutkha and similar products will remain prohibited for one more year starting from 13th September 2025.
The Commissioner of Food Safety, Food and Drug Control Administration, Gandhinagar, extended this order and confirmed that the ban will continue across all districts of the state.
Why the Ban?
According to the Commissioner, adding tobacco or nicotine to any food item is completely prohibited in Gujarat. Since gutkha contains both these harmful ingredients, it is considered extremely dangerous to human health. Medical studies have repeatedly shown that gutkha and other smokeless tobacco products cause severe health problems such as oral cancer, respiratory issues, and heart diseases.
The government stressed that the decision was taken to protect both present and future generations from the harmful effects of gutkha. Authorities emphasized that consumption of these products severely damages health, increases cancer risks, and shortens life expectancy.
Legal Framework and Enforcement
The prohibition has been enforced under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which clearly states that no food item should contain nicotine or tobacco. With this regulation, Gujarat becomes one of the leading states in India to impose and strictly continue such a health-driven ban.
Officials warned that any shopkeeper, trader, or distributor found selling gutkha or pan masala with tobacco and nicotine will face strict legal action. This includes heavy fines, cancellation of licenses, and even imprisonment depending on the severity of the violation. The Food Safety Department has already directed district officers to closely monitor markets, shops, and distributors to ensure the ban is properly implemented.
Public Health Priority
Health experts have welcomed the extension of the ban, saying it will help reduce the number of cancer cases in Gujarat. They pointed out that young people are the most vulnerable group as gutkha is often marketed aggressively towards them. By keeping these products off the shelves, the government aims to discourage consumption among the youth and reduce addiction in society.
The move is also seen as part of Gujarat’s wider campaign against harmful substances. Over the years, awareness drives, public advisories, and strict enforcement measures have been carried out to ensure compliance.
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A Message for Traders and Citizens
The Gujarat government has once again made it clear: the complete ban on gutkha in Gujarat is non-negotiable. Traders must avoid stocking or selling such products, and citizens are advised to stay away from them for their own health and well-being.
Authorities believe that the combined effort of government enforcement and public cooperation will help make Gujarat a healthier state.
