Odisha Government Plans Liquor Ban: Minister Says Revenue Loss Won’t Encourage Alcohol Sales
Odisha government considers liquor ban despite significant revenue from alcohol sales. Minister emphasizes prioritizing public health over financial gains, signaling a potential shift in state policy toward alcohol regulation and social welfare.
Under the leadership of Minister Nityananda Gond, the BJP government in Odisha is planning to make the state alcohol-free step by step. Despite concerns about revenue, this move aims to address the social problems caused by alcohol and drug abuse.
The newly elected BJP government in Odisha is planning to make the state alcohol-free. Even if not completely, the government is considering a gradual ban on alcohol in Odisha.
Following the I&PR department’s announcement of a liquor ban in Odisha beginning on Independence Day, August 15, Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Minister Nityananda Gond stated that the state government intends to restrict alcohol consumption in the state.
The fear of revenue loss cannot justify encouraging alcohol sales. Alcohol consumption is polluting society, Gond said during a media interaction on International Day Against Drug Abuse.
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“Liquor has been banned in various states at the government level. Our government is also committed to taking similar actions. After discussions with the Excise and other departments, necessary steps will be taken. We will try to gradually make Odisha alcohol-free,” said Gond.
The minister also stated that the state government will take steps in the future to reduce drug use to create a healthy society.
During Naveen Patnaik’s 24-year tenure, the liquor industry has seen the most significant growth. Initially, the government earned ₹83 crores from this industry in its first year, but by 2024-25, it is reported to have reached ₹10,000 crores. Like how fish face danger when the heron’s beak grows, the proliferation of alcohol has resulted in the creation of thousands of alcoholics in the state, especially among the youth. Many of these individuals are dying prematurely due to alcohol-related issues.
Notably, Bihar, Gujarat, Mizoram, and Nagaland have already banned alcohol.
