Pan masala will not be banned in Odisha, Health Department clarifies

The Odisha government has clarified that pan masala will not be banned in the state, putting an end to speculation following a recent notification on tobacco-related products. The clarification has been issued by the Health and Family Welfare Department through an official letter addressed to the Commissioners of CT & GST and the Finance Department.

In the letter, Health Secretary Aswathy S, IAS, has clearly stated that pan masala products that do not contain tobacco or nicotine do not fall under the purview of the prohibition imposed through the recent government notification 

The clarification refers to a notification issued on January 21, 2026, and explicitly mentions that the ban applies only to products containing tobacco or nicotine. Pan masala that is free from these substances will continue to be legally sold and distributed in Odisha. 

The Health Department issued the clarification after concerns were raised by stakeholders and enforcement agencies regarding the applicability of the notification. To avoid confusion in implementation, the Health Secretary formally communicated the position to the CT & GST Commissioner and the Finance Department, ensuring uniform understanding across departments.

Also Read: Odisha records strong economic growth, NSDP rises to Rs 7.90 lakh crore

A copy of the clarification letter has also been forwarded to the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department for information, indicating the government’s intent to prevent any enforcement-related misinterpretation at the field level 

Officials said the move is aimed at distinguishing between tobacco-based products, which pose serious public health risks, and non-tobacco pan masala products, which are outside the scope of the current ban. The clarification is expected to bring relief to traders and consumers dealing exclusively in non-tobacco pan masala across the state.