Gujarat has prolonged its ban on gutkha and pan masala for yet another year (Representative image)
“To attract new industries and investments, we have announced both sector-specific and holistic industrial policies. Our data centre policy is unique in the country, and we are committed to promoting hyperscale data centres in Gujarat,” he added.
The fresh ban will come into effect from September 13, 2026, and remain in force until September 12, 2027, according to a notification issued by the Commissioner of Food Safety, news agency ANI reported. The ban has been in place in Gujarat since 2012, the notification said. The CMO also cited findings from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS), according to which 35% of adults in the country consume tobacco, while 21% were found to use smokeless tobacco.
Research conducted by Tata Memorial Hospital, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and ‘HAMER’ has found that consumption of gutkha and pan masala is carcinogenic and significantly increases the risk of oral cancer, according to a press release issued by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). GANDHINAGAR: The Gujarat government has extended its ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution and sale of gutkha and pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine for another year, citing concerns over their health impact, including the risk of oral cancer. The government warned that strict legal action would be taken against those violating the order. The extension comes as the Gujarat government continues to project the state as a destination for high-tech industries and sustainable development.