Odisha Govt Imposes Complete Ban on All Chewable Tobacco & Nicotine Products

In a major public health move, the Odisha government has imposed a comprehensive ban on all chewable tobacco and nicotine products across the state. The prohibition covers both flavoured and non-flavoured products, including those containing additives, as part of intensified efforts to curb rising tobacco-related health risks.

According to the government notification, the ban applies to all forms of smokeless tobacco and chewable nicotine products available in the market. The decision has been taken in view of growing concerns over oral cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and other serious ailments linked to tobacco and nicotine consumption.

Officials said the measure aims to protect public health, particularly among youth and vulnerable populations, who are increasingly exposed to such products.

However, cigarettes and beedis have been kept outside the purview of the current ban, drawing mixed reactions from public health activists who have long advocated for a uniform prohibition on all tobacco products.

The state administration has directed district authorities, food safety officials, and law enforcement agencies to strictly enforce the ban. Violators may face penalties under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act and other applicable laws.

The Odisha government reiterated its commitment to strengthening preventive healthcare and promoting a tobacco-free society through awareness campaigns, stricter regulations, and coordinated enforcement.

Health department officials also urged citizens to cooperate with authorities and support the initiative, emphasising that reducing tobacco consumption remains critical to lowering the overall disease burden in the state.