Haryana bans gutka, pan masala

The Haryana government on Tuesday announced that manufacturing and sale of gutka, pan masala, and other similar products containing tobacco has been completely banned in the state.

Health Minister Anil Vij said that the decision had been taken in view of health of the people.

"The manufacturing, storage, distribution and sale of gutka, pan masala, flavoured or scented tobacco, kharra and other similar products containing tobacco have been completely banned. Other products containing tobacco which are available in market are also included in it," he said.

The Food and Drugs Administration has issued notification in this regard, under which, sale and purchase of tobacco products have been prohibited for one year from September 3 in the interest of public health, Vij said.

The ban also includes mix of other ingredients such as heavy metals and anti-caking agents, except to the extent of specifically permitted ingredients, silver leaf, binders, flavours, scents and fragrances.