Gujarat Extends Ban On Tobacco-Laced Gutkha And Pan Masala For Another Year

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, according to a notification issued by the Commissioner of Food Safety on August 31. The decision has been taken citing public health concerns and representations received from various non-governmental organisations.

The prohibition, which has been in place in Gujarat since 2012, will continue to apply to tobacco- or nicotine-containing gutkha and pan masala irrespective of the name or branding under which such products are marketed. The order also covers ingredients sold separately when they are intended to be mixed together to prepare gutkha or pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine. The provision is aimed at preventing attempts to circumvent the ban by selling components separately.

The notification warned that strict legal action would be taken against those found violating the prohibition. Enforcement will cover the manufacture, storage, distribution and sale of products falling within the scope of the order. The renewed notification therefore keeps the existing restrictions in place without a gap, extending Gujarat’s long-running prohibition for another 12 months.

Also Read: FSSAI Mandates Paper, Tin or Glass Packaging For Pan Masala

The state government cited health concerns associated with tobacco and nicotine consumption while explaining the decision. The notification referred to research by Tata Memorial Hospital, the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and HAMER, which indicated that gutkha and pan masala consumption is carcinogenic and increases the risk of oral cancer. The government said protecting citizens’ health remained a key reason for continuing the restrictions.

The notification also referred to findings from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS), according to which 35 per cent of adults in India consume tobacco, while 21 per cent use smokeless tobacco. The state government said the latest extension followed representations from NGOs and the need to protect public health. The figures were cited in the notification as part of the rationale for continuing restrictions on tobacco-containing products.

With the latest order, Gujarat will continue its prohibition on tobacco- and nicotine-laced gutkha and pan masala through September 12, 2027. The restrictions will also remain applicable to separately sold ingredients intended to be combined into prohibited products, while authorities will be responsible for enforcing the provisions against violations.

Also Read: Gujarat Forms Panel To Study Reservation In Promotions For Employees With Disabilities