Families in Malnad and Coastal districts of Karnataka depend on the arecanut crop for their livelihood
The Central government has decided to "rethink" the proposed ban on arecanut cultivation in Karnataka.
The move follows pressure from various quarters and the state government, said Gulam Nabi Azad, minister for health and family welfare.
Talking to reporters after reviewing the various schemes of the health and medical education departments, here today, he said the government has decided to put on hold the proposed arecanut ban.
A delegation led by chief minister Siddaramaiah had met Azad in Delhi a few days ago and urged him not to impose ban on arecanut.
Thousands of families in Malnad and Coastal districts of Karnataka depend on the arecanut crop for their livelihood.
On September 6, 2013, Amal Pusp, Director, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, wrote a letter to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), to examine the scientific evidences on the harmful effects of arecanut.
The move was aimed at initiating necessary action to classify the nut as an injurious substance and accordingly prohibit its use as ingredient in any food product, in conformity with the objectives of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption.
Minister for Health and Family Welfare U T Khader and Minister of State for Medical Education Dr Sharan Prakash Patil reviewed the progress of various schemes with Azad.
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