Complete ban on gutkha and tobacco-containing pan masala in Jharkhand

Why in news?

• Jharkhand government has imposed a complete ban on the production, distribution, sale and storage of gutkha and pan masala containing nicotine and tobacco.
• According to the notification issued by the Jharkhand Health Department, this ban will remain effective for the next one year from the date of issue of the notification.
• After this, the situation will be reviewed and the extension of the ban period will be considered.
• Area of ​​ban: Entire Jharkhand state.

Legal basis:

• Section 30(2)(A) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
• Regulations 2, 3 and 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulations, 2011.

Effects of gutkha and tobacco on health:

• Statistics related to cancer and consumption of tobacco products:
• In Jharkhand, about 70 people per one lakh population suffer from cancer.
• Out of these, 40-45 patients are victims of oral (mouth) cancer.
• Excessive consumption of gutkha, tobacco and pan masala is a major cause of cancer.
• Apart from oral cancer, tobacco products cause heart disease, lung diseases and serious dental problems.

Main diseases related to tobacco consumption:-

• Oral cancer (mouth cancer)
• Throat and lung cancer
• Heart disease and high blood pressure
• Digestive system problems and ulcers
• Teeth and gum diseases

Major steps for strict implementation of the ban

• All government departments ordered to keep a watch.
• Raid campaign will be conducted in every district.
• Awareness will be increased through public health campaigns.
• More strictness will be brought to stop smoking and tobacco consumption in public places.