Karnataka bans sale, distribution of tobacco, nicotine products for one year
News Mania Desk/ Piyal Chatterjee/ 12th August 2026
The Karnataka government has barred the sale and distribution of gutkha, pan masala and other items containing tobacco and/or nicotine across the state for one year, citing public health concerns, officials said on Wednesday.
On August 10, 2026, the Department of Food Safety and Drugs Administration released the notification in accordance with Regulation 2.3.4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011 and Section 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
“In exercise of the powers conferred under Section 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and Regulation 2.3.4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011, the Department of Food Safety and Drugs Administration has issued a Government Notification dated 10-08-2026,” Srinivas K, Commissioner, Department of Food Safety and Drugs Administration, said in a statement.
In the interest of public health, the notification forbids the distribution and sale of goods containing nicotine and tobacco in Karnataka. After it is issued, the restriction will be in effect for a full year. Food Safety Officers are conducting special inspections around the state as part of the department’s strict enforcement efforts against items that are illegal. Gutkha, pan masala, and other items containing tobacco and nicotine that are forbidden are manufactured, stored, transported, distributed, and sold.
Regardless of their brand, separately marketed goods with nicotine or tobacco in the finished product—including those sold in sachets, pouches, packages, or containers—are likewise prohibited. It covers goods offered either separately or in a way that makes it easier for customers to mix them. In order to help create a “healthy and addiction-free Karnataka,” the department has urged the public to report any production, distribution, or sale of illegal tobacco and nicotine products to the relevant authorities.
