Haryana Government bans sale of Tobacco and intoxicating substances within 100 yards of schools

Haryana, India: Haryana's Directorate of School Education has banned the sale of tobacco, gutkha and other intoxicating substances within 100 yards of all schools in the state. According to the circular issued by the Directorate, all block education officers, block resource centres, and school principals or headmasters have been instructed to keep a strict watch on any sale of tobacco, gutkha and intoxicating substances in the restricted zone around schools. The circular further stated that in case of any violation, the concerned Gram Panchayat and the nearest police officer/employee must be informed immediately, and prompt action should be taken to stop the sale. Last year, in 2024, the Haryana Assembly passed a bill banning the opening and running of hookah bars and prohibiting serving hookah to customers anywhere in the state under The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Haryana Amendment Bill, 2024. According to Section 21-A of the law, individuals violating Section 4-A (prohibiting hookah bars) may face imprisonment of up to one year, which may extend to three years, and a fine of one lakh rupees, which may extend to five lakh rupees.

Earlier, on August 29, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini said the state’s vision is to make agriculture not just a means of survival but a sustainable and profitable business. Addressing the 20th CII India-Africa Business Conclave in New Delhi, he said Haryana is working to support farmers at every stage, from cultivation to sale of produce. He added that the government’s focus is not only on increasing production but also on making agriculture a sustainable and profitable venture. Saini further noted that India and Africa are building a future of mutual trust and cooperation in areas including agriculture, skill development, education, and digital public goods. "The innovations and technologies Haryana is using in its agriculture sector can also be replicated in Africa," he said. ANI