Gandhinagar, Aug. 31 -- The complete ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution and sale of gutkha and pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine across the state has been extended for another year, effective from September 13, 2026. In this regard, the Commissioner of Food Safety has stated in a notification that the ban has been in force in Gujarat since 2012.

According to a press release issued by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the notification further states that, according to research conducted by Tata Memorial Hospital, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and 'HAMER', consumption of gutkha and pan masala is carcinogenic and significantly increases the risk of oral cancer. Additionally, according to the Global Adult Tobacco...