The Telangana government has banned the manufacture, storage, distribution, and sale of gutka and pan masala containing tobacco and nicotine statewide, effective from May 24, 2024, for a period of one year.
The restriction has been implemented with a genuine concern for public welfare. As per the directive from the Food Safety Commissioner, it will be enforced under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
According to the directive issued by the Food Safety Commissioner, the order states, “Telangana state hereby prohibits the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation, and sale of Gutkha/Pan masala containing tobacco and nicotine as ingredients, packaged in sachets, pouches, packages, containers, etc., or by any other name, throughout the entire State of Telangana for a period of one year, starting from May 24, 2024.”
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This development comes as a response to the serious health risks associated with the consumption of Gutka and pan masala. These tobacco products are often linked to oral cancer, oral submucous fibrosis, and various other health issues.
Impact on Market Dynamics and Pan Shop Owners
Since Sunday afternoon, this directive has affected the markets in Hyderabad, with pan shop owners prepared to adhere to the new regulation. However, they are encountering challenges due to the unorganized nature of the sector.
Mohammed Salahuddin Dakhni, president of the Pan Shop Owners Association of Telangana, said, “There are approximately 150,000 pan shops in Telangana. We endorse the ban on gutka, and many shops have already ceased its sale. However, we urge authorities to consider exempting chewing tobacco and zarda, as millions of families rely on these sales for their livelihoods.”
Mr. Salahuddin mentioned that his association had recently submitted petitions to Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya regarding this matter. He noted that numerous pan shops across the state also display posters outside indicating that they do not sell gutka.
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