SUBHASH MISHRA
Ranchi, Dec 2: The Jharkhand Health Department is preparing to launch extensive raids across the state to curb the sale and use of nicotine pouches and nicotine-laced pan masala.
Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari said the initiative is urgently needed as the younger generation is being increasingly harmed by gutkha and other addictive products.
Calling nicotine pouches “far more dangerous” than traditional tobacco-based items, Dr. Ansari said the department has resolved to take strict enforcement measures.
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“My priority is to protect the youth, which is why I have decided to initiate intensive raids against nicotine pouches across the state,” he said.
Rising Health Risks and Need for Stronger Regulation
The minister expressed deep concern over the growing number of young people affected by oral cancer and other diseases linked to pan masala, gutkha, and tobacco consumption.
He said this trend is not just worrying but also a warning that immediate intervention is necessary to prevent widespread addiction.
Dr. Ansari also acknowledged the need for stronger laws and greater public awareness to discourage the use of nicotine-laced products.
While legislation already exists to regulate tobacco consumption, he stressed that effective enforcement depends on honest and consistent implementation.
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Minister’s Upcoming Jamshedpur Visit
To further strengthen health services, Dr. Ansari announced that he will visit Jamshedpur Sadar Hospital soon. During the visit, he plans to review operations and discuss measures to improve treatment quality and patient facilities.
