Bhubaneswar, Jan. 31 -- In a significant clarification aimed at dispelling confusion surrounding the sale of pan masala in Odisha, Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling on Saturday stated that pan masala containing nicotine will not be permitted for sale anywhere in the State. The Minister made it clear that only nicotine-free pan masala products will be allowed in the market.

Addressing the debate that surfaced after the complete ban on gutkha, the Health Minister emphasized that the Odisha government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards nicotine-containing products. He categorically stated that the sale, storage, transportation, and distribution of all products containing nicotine are strictly prohibited under existing regulations.

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