Odisha Bans Tobacco & Nicotine Products — Odisha Bans All Tobacco & Nicotine Products to Protect Public Health

In a landmark move aimed at safeguarding public health, the Odisha government has announced a complete ban on all tobacco and nicotine-based products, including gutkha. The ban covers manufacturing, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, and sale of such products across the state.

The decision, issued through an official notification by the Health and Family Welfare Department on January 21, aligns with directions from the Supreme Court of India and guidelines set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

Odisha Government Enforces Strict Tobacco Ban Under Food Safety Laws

The prohibition has been implemented under Section 2.3.4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011, along with provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Products Covered Under the Ban

The ban applies to:

Gutkha
Tobacco-containing food products
Nicotine-based consumables
Chewable or non-chewable food items
Flavoured, scented, or additive-mixed products

Any food product, whether chewable or otherwise, that contains tobacco or nicotine in any form is strictly prohibited.

Ban Aims to Build a Tobacco-Free Odisha

The Odisha government emphasized that the decision is crucial for protecting public health and reducing the growing burden of tobacco-related diseases. Citizens have been urged to strictly comply with the ban and actively support efforts to create a healthier, tobacco-free society.

Government’s Appeal to Citizens

Authorities have called upon:

Retailers to stop selling banned products
Manufacturers and distributors to halt production and supply
Citizens to report violations

Strict enforcement measures will be taken against violators under existing food safety laws.

Health Experts Welcome Odisha Tobacco & Nicotine Ban

Health experts have consistently warned about the serious health risks associated with tobacco and nicotine consumption. These substances are directly linked to:

Oral cancer
Throat cancer
Lung and internal organ cancers
Heart disease

Protecting Children and Youth

Experts highlight that children and young people are especially vulnerable to addiction caused by flavoured and scented tobacco products. The ban is seen as a critical step toward protecting future generations from long-term health damage.

Odisha Sets an Example in Public Health Policy

With this comprehensive ban, Odisha joins a growing list of states taking strong action against tobacco and nicotine products. The move reinforces the state’s commitment to public health, food safety, and compliance with national regulations.

The government reiterated that public cooperation is key to ensuring the success of this initiative and achieving a tobacco-free Odisha.

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