Maharashtra Govt To Ban Sale Of Sting Energy Drink Within 500 Metres Of Schools
Maharashtra Govt To Ban Sale Of Sting Energy Drink Within 500 Metres Of Schools
Pune, July 3, 2026: The Maharashtra Government has announced that the sale of Sting Energy Drink will be prohibited within a 500-metre radius of schools following concerns over its impact on children’s health. The decision was announced during the ongoing Monsoon Session of the State Legislature after the issue was raised in the Assembly.
BJP MLA Vikram Pachpute from the Shrigonda-Nagar constituency highlighted the alleged health risks associated with the energy drink, claiming that despite complying with existing regulations, its consumption could become habitual among children. He pointed out that the product label itself advises that it is not suitable for young children and pregnant women, and urged the government to prevent its sale to minors.
Responding to the discussion, Maharashtra Minister of State for Food and Drug Administration, Narhari Zirwal, acknowledged that the drink is commonly sold near school premises and directed the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prohibit the sale of Sting Energy Drink within 500 metres of schools, alongside restrictions already in place for narcotic substances.
The issue also brought FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe to the Vidhan Bhavan, where he reviewed the matter during the Assembly proceedings. The minister informed the House that investigations under Mundhe’s supervision are already underway into the sale of energy drinks, flavoured tobacco products, and other potentially harmful products near educational institutions.
BJP MLA Rahul Kul also demanded an inquiry into the sale of energy drinks and flavoured products around schools, alleging that some products marketed as flavoured milk contain excessive sugar and artificial ingredients that may adversely affect children’s health. Zirwal confirmed that the FDA has initiated inspections under the direction of Commissioner Mundhe.
Meanwhile, the FDA has intensified its statewide enforcement drive against the sale of banned gutkha and pan masala. Acting on Mundhe’s directives, the department has also launched inspections of restaurants, bakeries, and food establishments for violations of food safety regulations.
Recently, the FDA suspended food safety licences of six prominent hotels, restaurants, bakeries, and clubs in Mumbai after inspections uncovered violations including improper food branding, unhygienic conditions, and breaches of food safety norms. Establishments in Nariman Point, Borivali, Bhandup, Santacruz, and Bandra were among those subjected to action.
Tukaram Mundhe assumed charge as the Commissioner of the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration on May 25, following his appointment by the state’s General Administration Department. His appointment came after the department faced criticism over allegations of corruption and irregularities, with the government assigning him the responsibility of strengthening regulatory enforcement across the state.
