Kerala for a liquor policy as you wish

Thiruvananthapuram: The LDF government will elicit the opinion of all sections of society before formulating its liquor policy. The government’s plan was conveyed in the Governor’s address in Assembly on Friday. The government felt that the restrictions imposed on consumption of liquor had failed to yield the desired positive impact in the state.

With the government focussing on abstinence rather than prohibition, it wants to for an intensive campaign against alcohol consumption and substance. The government intended to constitute an Awareness Mission to create awareness about alcohol abstinence and anti narcotic activities.

The proposed mission will coordinate the work of student police cadets, anti narcotic clubs in schools and colleges, NSS, Kudumbasree, state library council, various NGOs including Madhya Varjana Samathi,  students and youth organisations. A detailed scientific study will be conducted on the social, economic and health problems arising from the consumption of liquor and widespread availability of substances.

The government has decided to set up state of the art laboratories to combat substance abuse. With drug abuse having far reaching health issues especially among the youth, the government wants to go for a comprehensive rehabilitation policy. As part of the policy, the government plans to set up de addiction centres in all districts.

Besides, the government will also establish Janmathri Excise Offices to strengthen enforcement activities in Nilambur in Malappuram district and Devikulam in Idukki district because of predominant tribal and estate workers population.

Apart from enforcement, the government also plans to enhance research and training facilities. The Excise Academy and Research Centre at Thrissur will be upgraded to the level of National Academy.

Impact of liquor policy: While there was 24.92 percent drop in liquor consumption after the new liquor policy was introduced, beer sales increased by 63.65 percent and wine sale by 260.02 percent. According to study conducted by Adic India, IMFL sales had dropped by 5,43,32,897 litres over the last two years up to March 2016.

However, beer sales went up by 2,87,77,377 litres since the new policy came into being. The opening of large number of beer and wine parlours across the state led to an alarming increase in consumption rates. Similarly wine sales also increased by 10,42, 398 litres.