Correspondent
KOHIMA, JUN 10 (NPN): The state government’s recent decision to prohibit the manufacture, storage, distribution and sale of food products containing tobacco and nicotine for one year has triggered concern among wholesalers, retailers and suppliers, who say the sudden implementation has created uncertainty for businesses holding large stocks.
Several traders told Nagaland Post that while they understood the public health rationale behind the move, the absence of a transition period had left many businesses struggling to adjust. They pointed out that wholesalers and retailers had already invested significant amounts in existing stock and sought clarity on how such inventories would be handled.
A wholesale supplier from Kohima noted that Dimapur functions as a major distribution centre catering not only to Nagaland but also neighbouring states.
He said many small retailers and pan-shop owners depend on tobacco-related products for a substantial portion of their income and feared the ban could affect their livelihoods.
Some traders also questioned whether the prohibition would achieve its intended objective, citing concerns that demand may continue and result in higher prices or informal trade channels/black market.
Reports from certain areas indicate that prices of tobacco products have already increased sharply following the notification.
A shop owner acknowledged the health risks associated with tobacco consumption but suggested that sustained awareness campaigns and public education should complement regulatory measures.
He noted that chewing pan and tamul has long been part of local social practices and expressed concern that an outright ban may prove difficult to enforce effectively like the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act. According to him, the prohibition could encourage illegal sales, drive up prices, and adversely impact government revenue as well as businesses dependent on the trade.
Meanwhile, Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) chief executive officer Alem Longchar clarified that permits were no longer being issued following the notification and informed that a meeting would soon be convened to discuss implementation issues and constitute a committee to oversee enforcement.
The Mokokchung Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) has also urged the government to provide clarity on implementation timelines and allow businesses reasonable time to dispose of existing stocks, while reiterating support for public health objectives.