Karnataka bans gutkha and nicotine products for one year

The Karnataka government has issued a notification prohibiting the manufacture, storage, distribution, transportation, and sale of gutkha, pan masala, and other products containing tobacco or nicotine. The ban, issued by the Department of Food Safety and Drug Administration, is intended to protect public health and reduce the harms associated with nicotine consumption.

The prohibition is set to remain in force across the state for one year from the date of issuance. Under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 and the 2011 regulations, authorities will conduct stringent enforcement operations and special inspections to target violators. The department has requested public cooperation in reporting the illegal manufacture or sale of these prohibited substances.