Key Update

The Maharashtra government has announced that it will prohibit the sale of Sting energy drink and other intoxicating substances within a 500-metre radius of schools. While the announcement specifically names Sting, the proposed restriction will apply to all energy drinks and other intoxicating products covered by the order.

The decision follows concerns over ingredients in energy drinks that health experts consider unsuitable for children. Replying to a question raised by BJP MLA Vikram Pachpute in the Legislative Assembly, Food and Drug Administration Minister Narhari Zirwal said the government introduced the measure to protect schoolchildren from the potential health risks associated with these beverages.

FDA Asked to Enforce the Restriction

Zirwal said the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been directed to enforce the restriction. He added that authorities will take immediate action against anyone found selling energy drinks or other intoxicating substances within the restricted 500-metre zone around schools.

The government has also instructed schools to conduct awareness programmes to educate students about the health risks associated with consuming energy drinks. Health experts have long warned that these beverages often contain high levels of caffeine and sugar, making them unsuitable for children.

Call for Tighter Controls

During the discussion, MLA Vikram Pachpute asked whether the government would introduce a rule prohibiting the sale of energy drinks to children below 18 years of age. MLAs Rahul Kul and Varun Sardesai also urged the government to adopt stricter measures to curb the easy availability of energy drinks to children.

Focus on Child Safety

In response, Zirwal said the government will strengthen school-level awareness campaigns while ensuring strict enforcement of the proposed restriction. The move aims to reduce children’s access to energy drinks and other intoxicating substances in the vicinity of schools and promote healthier choices among students.

Source: The Telegraph Online