Odisha Bans Gutkha, Pan Masala, Tobacco Products for Public Health

• Odisha government has banned all tobacco and nicotine-containing products, including gutkha, pan masala, zarda, and khaini, across the state.
• The decision aligns with a Supreme Court directive and aims to protect public health due to the severe impact of these products.
• Production, sale, and trade of these tobacco products are now completely prohibited in Odisha.
• Health Minister Mukesh Mahalinga cited a survey showing high tobacco consumption and increased oral cancer cases in the state.
• A special squad will be deployed to enforce the ban, and the public is urged to cooperate for a cancer-free Odisha.

Why It Matters: Odisha has banned gutkha, pan masala, and other tobacco products statewide to safeguard public health.