In line with the directions issued by the Supreme Court and to safeguard public health, the Odisha government has imposed a statewide ban on all tobacco and nicotine-containing products, such as gutkha, pan masala, zarda, khaini, and more.

The production, sale, and trade of tobacco-related products have been strictly prohibited across the state, as the government outlined that such products pose a major threat to public health. The ban has been enforced to safeguard public health.

The Odisha government has urged its citizens to abide by rules and support the mission of building a healthy and tobacco-free Odisha.

“A survey has revealed that as many as twice as many people in Odisha consume tobacco-based gutkha compared to the national average. This has led to a significant rise in oral and mouth cancer cases", said Mukesh Mahalinga, Odisha Health Minister, while speaking to reporters.

The Minister added that a special squad will be deployed to enforce the ban across the state.

“In view of this, the government has decided to ban the use of gutkha in public places. A special squad will be deployed to enforce the ban. People are requested not to consume tobacco-based gutkha and to support the mission of building a cancer-free and healthy Odisha", he said.

Source: News18