22/08/2025
Several states in India have banned gutkha, a chewing to***co product, including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. Other states that have implemented bans include Bihar, Goa, and Rajasthan. The bans are typically in response to health concerns and aim to restrict the manufacture, sale, and distribution of gutkha.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Maharashtra: Banned the sale, display, manufacture, and distribution of gutkha and pan masala containing to***co and/or ni****ne, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh: Also banned gutkha, with Tamil Nadu being one of the first states to implement such a ban.
Bihar: Implemented a ban on gutkha following the example of Maharashtra.
Goa: Joined the list of states banning gutkha.
Rajasthan: Also implemented a ban on gutkha.
The Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 has been instrumental in facilitating these bans, with offenders facing potential imprisonment.