Mumbai, July 3 (Maxim News): The Maharashtra government has announced a ban on the sale of Sting energy drink and other intoxicating substances within a 500-metre radius of schools. The decision follows concerns over the health impact of energy drinks on children and aims to reduce their easy availability near educational institutions.
Food and Drug Administration Minister Narhari Zirwal made the announcement in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly while replying to a question raised by BJP MLA Vikram Pachpute. He said the government had directed the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to strictly enforce the restriction around school campuses.
Zirwal said the concerns raised over the sale of Sting energy drinks near schools were valid. Therefore, the government decided to prohibit the sale of energy drinks and other intoxicating substances within 500 metres of schools. He warned that authorities would take immediate action against anyone found violating the order.
In addition, the minister said schools would conduct awareness programmes to educate students about the health risks associated with consuming energy drinks. The government believes that awareness, along with strict enforcement, will help reduce consumption among children.
During the Assembly discussion, Vikram Pachpute also asked whether the government would introduce a rule banning the sale of Sting energy drinks to children below 18 years of age. However, the minister did not announce any age-specific restriction and said the government would focus on enforcing the 500-metre ban and strengthening awareness campaigns.
Meanwhile, MLAs Rahul Kul and Varun Sardesai urged the government to adopt stricter measures to prevent children from easily accessing such beverages.
Health experts have repeatedly warned that energy drinks typically contain high levels of caffeine and sugar, which may affect children’s physical and mental health when consumed excessively. Excessive caffeine intake can lead to sleep disturbances, increased heart rate, anxiety, and other health concerns, particularly among adolescents.
The Maharashtra government’s decision is expected to strengthen child health protection around schools while encouraging greater awareness about the risks linked to energy drink consumption. (Maxim News)
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