Delhi Government To Ban Tobacco Products Sale and Manufacture
The Delhi government has decided to ban all kinds of raw chewable tobacco products such as gutkha, khaini and zarda in the national capital. The Health Minister Satyendra Jain has taken this great initiative and came up with the notification to ban all raw chewable products in Delhi for which a proposal has been finalized.
A great step taken by Health Minister Satyendra Jain to reduce the tobacco consumption for one long year in the capital of India. To reduce the oral cancer patients in the city and for green, tobacoo free environment for future.
The previous proposal to ban banning raw chewable tobacco products in October last year was pending with the Lieutenant Governor (L-G) for final approval. Now this proposal was approved by jain and issued notification. Health Minister Satyendra Jain has taken this decision to remove ambiguities to ensure that biggest source of oral cancer disappears and the city becomes a tobacco-free city for the future generation.
Gutka or Gutkha Tobacco Products :
Gutka or Gutkha is a preparation of crushed areca nut tobacco, catechu, paraffin, slaked lime and sweet or savory flavorings. It is manufactured in India and exported to a few other countries. A mild stimulant, it is sold across India in small, individual-sized packets that cost between 2 and 10 rupees per packet. Gutka is consumed by placing a pinch of it between the gum and cheek and gently sucking and chewing. It is considered responsible for oral cancer and other severe negative health effects. As with paan and other smokeless tobacco products, there are preventive efforts to encourage users to quit and young people not to start.
Highly addictive and a known carcinogen, gutkha is the subject of much controversy in India. Many states have sought to curb its immense popularity by taxing sales of gutkha heavily or by banning it outright.
Health department has taken a forward step to create awareness in the city about its harmful effects. It has launched an innovative drive, creating a ‘Tobacco Aware Citizens’ Directory’ to spread the word.