Which Indian state became known for introducing a special FAT tax on junk food and fast food items sold through branded outlets in order to discourage unhealthy eating habits?

Introduction / Context:
Several Indian states have experimented with innovative tax measures to address public health issues such as obesity and lifestyle diseases. One such measure was a special FAT tax imposed on junk food and fast food sold by branded restaurants. This question asks which state was associated with this policy, which became widely discussed in the media as a pioneering example of using taxation to discourage unhealthy eating habits.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The tax in question is described as a FAT tax on junk food. - It was introduced at the state level through the tax system. - Options given are Rajasthan, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Bihar. - We need to identify which state gained attention for this specific measure.

Concept / Approach:
The FAT tax was introduced by the state of Kerala on certain branded fast food items as part of its budget proposals. The idea was to impose an additional levy on items sold through outlets of major fast food chains to encourage healthier choices. While other states have experimented with bans or regulations on certain foods, Kerala policy of a specific FAT tax on junk food was distinctive and well reported. Thus, the approach is to recall which state budget announcements included this measure and then select that state from the options.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall media coverage that spoke about a southern state imposing a FAT tax on junk food sold by branded restaurant chains. Step 2: Recognise that Kerala, a state known for high literacy and active public health policies, was the one that introduced such a tax in its budget. Step 3: Check the options and note that Kerala is present among them. Step 4: Consider that Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh and Bihar have not been prominently associated with a FAT tax on junk food in comparable national coverage. Step 5: Therefore, select Kerala as the state that introduced the FAT tax on junk food.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard current affairs compilations related to state budgets and health policies mention that Kerala imposed a FAT tax on fast food items served by major chains. This measure was highlighted as one of the first of its kind in India and led to debates about effectiveness and impact on businesses. In contrast, summaries of health related taxes in other listed states do not report a measure with this particular name and structure. This cross check supports Kerala as the correct answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Rajasthan: While the state has its own health programmes and taxes, it is not credited with introducing the specific FAT tax on junk food discussed here, so this option is incorrect.
Andhra Pradesh: There is no widely reported measure from Andhra Pradesh that matches the description of the special FAT tax on branded junk food introduced in Kerala, making this choice wrong.
Bihar: Bihar faces many public health challenges, but it is not the state associated with this particular FAT tax on junk food as described in exam oriented current affairs notes, so this option is not correct.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may guess randomly among states or assume that a larger state like Uttar Pradesh or a northern state must be involved, even when it is not listed. Others may confuse this FAT tax with general increased VAT or GST rates on certain items. There can also be confusion with states that implemented bans on junk food in school canteens, which is a different policy. To avoid mistakes, students should firmly connect the phrase FAT tax on junk food to Kerala state budget discussions in their memory, which will help them recall the correct answer quickly in examinations.

Final Answer:
The state that became known for introducing a FAT tax on junk food and fast food items was Kerala.