The Maharashtra government on January 24, 2018 banned the sale of tobacco in shops selling Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) items in the state.

The state government announced a ban on the sale of tobacco at shops selling chips, chocolates and other edible items. The move aims to ensure that youngsters do not get addicted to tobacco products.

Speaking on the decision, Pallavi Darade, Commissioner of Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration, said that children tend to get influenced by the presence of tobacco and other related items while they are out shopping for food items like chocolates and chips. She said that the move is in line with the directions issued by the Centre.

Key Highlights

The move is aimed at ensuring youngsters do not get addicted to tobacco products.

Several shops that sell tobacco and related products also sell other FMCG items.

Background

The Union government had directed state governments to enforce a ban on the sale of tobacco at outlets which also sell Fast Moving Consumer Goods or items of general public consumption.

Penal Action

The shops and establishments caught selling both tobacco and FMCG items would face penal action including cancellation of their licence, up to six months of imprisonment and a fine.

Maharashtra, which came out with the notification on January 9, has become the first state to enforce the ban.