Haryana Bans Tobacco and Gutkha Sales Near Schools to Protect Students
In a big move to keep schools tobacco-free, the Haryana Directorate of School Education has banned the sale of tobacco, gutkha, and other intoxicating substances within 100 yards of all schools across the state. This new rule came into effect on Friday, September 13, in Chandigarh, Haryana.
The education department issued a clear circular directing block education officers, block resource centers, and school principals or headmasters to watch out for any illegal sales near their schools. They must stay alert and act fast if they spot violations.
If anyone breaks this ban on tobacco products near schools, the circular says to immediately inform the local Gram Panchayat and the nearest police officer. This will help stop the sale of gutkha and other harmful substances right away, ensuring a safer environment for students.
This step builds on Haryana’s strong anti-tobacco efforts. Last year, in 2024, the Haryana Assembly passed the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Haryana Amendment Bill, 2024. This law cracked down on hookah bars, banning their operation and serving hookah to customers anywhere in the state.
Under Section 21-A of this anti-tobacco law, violators of the hookah bar ban (Section 4A) could face up to one year in jail, which might extend to three years, plus a fine of Rs 1 lakh that could go up to Rs 5 lakhs. These strict rules show Haryana’s commitment to curbing tobacco use and protecting public health.
Haryana CM Pushes for Profitable Farming and Global Ties
Shifting gears to agriculture, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Saini recently shared the state’s vision to turn farming into a sustainable and money-making venture, not just a way to get by. Speaking at the 20th CII India-Africa Business Conclave in New Delhi on August 29, Saini highlighted how the government supports farmers from seed to sale.
"Haryana isn’t just aiming to boost crop production—we want agriculture to be a smart, profitable business for everyone," Saini said. He pointed out key areas like better cultivation techniques, market access, and tech innovations to make farming thrive.
Saini also stressed stronger India-Africa partnerships in agriculture, skill development, education, and digital tools. "The farming tech and ideas working wonders in Haryana can easily be adapted in Africa," he added, calling for more trust and collaboration between the two regions to build a brighter future.
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