Government Schemes and Policy · 24 January 2026

Odisha Total Ban on Gutka and Tobacco/Nicotine Food Products

Exam-focused facts from the 24 January 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

  • Odisha government ordered a complete ban on manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and consumption of gutka and all food products containing tobacco and nicotine.
  • The ban covers gutka, pan masala, zarda, khaini and similar chewable or flavoured/scented food products, packaged or unpackaged.
  • Cigarettes and bidis are excluded from the prohibition.
  • Violations will attract strict penal action under food safety law, including product seizure, licence cancellation and prosecution.