The Central Arecanut and Cocoa Marketing and Processing Co-operative Limited (CAMPCO), under the leadership of its President A. Kishore Kumar Kodgi, has submitted an appeal to the Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis urging the removal of the prohibition on flavoured supari products in the state.
The ban, imposed in 2013, has caused significant hardships for arecanut farmers, traders, and small businesses, despite these products meeting all regulatory standards and being legally manufactured and sold across other parts of India.
In the appeal, CAMPCO congratulated the Chief Minister on his leadership and highlighted that the organization’s flavoured supari products are fully compliant with the Food Safety and Standards Act and are distinct from harmful products like gutka, pan masala, and tobacco.
CAMPCO pointed out that the prohibition not only disrupts the livelihoods of thousands but also contradicts the uniform regulatory framework envisioned under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The cooperative emphasized that its flavoured supari does not contain substances like tobacco, nicotine, lime (chuna), or catechu (katha), which are commonly associated with harmful products.
Additionally, it adheres strictly to food safety regulations, unlike other products that often face legal challenges for violating these standards. CAMPCO proposed clear regulatory guidelines to ensure safety and quality, including strict compliance with food safety regulations and limits on artificial sweeteners if used.
Arecanut cultivation holds immense economic and cultural significance in India, particularly in rural communities. In Maharashtra, more than 3,000 hectares are dedicated to arecanut farming, producing approximately 5,000 metric tonnes annually. CAMPCO highlighted that the prohibition has severely impacted the livelihoods of farmers and businesses dependent on arecanut production.
CAMPCO President A. Kishore Kumar Kodgi expressed optimism, stating, “We are confident in the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s leadership and his commitment to safeguarding the interests of the farming community. CAMPCO remains dedicated to working with authorities to ensure safe and regulated practices in the manufacturing of arecanut products.”
The cooperative hopes the Maharashtra government will consider this appeal and lift the ban, ensuring fair opportunities for arecanut farmers and businesses while maintaining regulatory compliance.
