The Gujarat government has announced the extension of its ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution, and sale of gutkha and pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine for an additional year. This decision, effective from September 13, 2026, was confirmed by the Commissioner of Food Safety in a recent notification. The ban has been in place since 2012, reflecting the state’s ongoing efforts to curb tobacco-related health issues.
In tandem with its commitment to a healthy and tobacco-free society, the Gujarat government is also aggressively positioning the state as a premier global destination for high-tech industries and sustainable development. Additionally, according to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) report, 35% of adults in the country consume tobacco, of whom 21% were found to use smokeless tobacco. Notably, the Government of Gujarat has been continuously enforcing this ban since 2012. Considering the protection of citizens’ health and representations received from various non-governmental organisations (NGOs), the ban has been extended for another year, from September 13, 2026, to September 12, 2027. Addressing the gathering at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2027 – Curtain Raiser, Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel extended an open invitation to investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders from across India and overseas to set up operations in the state.
The notification further states that, according to research conducted by Tata Memorial Hospital, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and ‘HAMER’, consumption of gutkha and pan masala is carcinogenic and significantly increases the risk of oral cancer, according to a press release issued by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
“Today, we are not only asking which industry will come next. He stated that the state’s industrial planning looks beyond short-term expansion to focus on long-term economic drivers. Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister outlined the strategic direction of the upcoming 11th edition of the summit, scheduled to take place on January 10, 11, and 12, 2027, under the theme ‘Viksit Gujarat: Shaping Global Future. We are asking which sectors will shape the economy of the next 20 years, and with that vision, we are organising Vibrant Gujarat 2027,” Patel said.
“In accordance with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Modi ji, we are moving forward with the aim of making Gujarat a leader in soft power, with a special focus on emerging sectors and green growth,” he added. “Through GIFT City, connect with new opportunities in global finance and fintech, and connect your future with the talent of Gujarat’s youth,” Patel said.
