No more dry days in state; Govt all set to float new liquor policy

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government is all set to announce the new liquor policy by eliminating the dry day scheme. A final discussion will be held again to determine whether it is sufficient to allow exemption only for liquor shops in the tourism area. The announcement is likely to be made next week.

The State Beverages Corporation will recommend avoiding the dry day on the first day of every month. BEVCO MD Harshita Attaluri told Kerala Kaumudi that closing liquor shops on the first of every month is of no use to the government.

Studies have shown that observing 12 dry days in a year causes serious loss to the state exchequer. They also explained that closure on special days or festivals can be considered if necessary. Liquor policy was included in the agenda of the last cabinet meeting, but it was postponed as no agreement could be reached on eliminating dry days and reducing the distance limit of toddy shops.

The licensees have been demanding that the distance limit of toddy shops be reduced to 400 meters. Some ministers also suggested the proposal to be considered. There is also the concern of the opposition trying to use the ‘dry day’ as a weapon to put the government in dock.

Bevco's average daily sales are 50 crores. Bevco has opened four retail outlets which were closed earlier. Now there are 282 shops. Excise licenses for eight new shops are under consideration. Apart from that, buildings for 25 new shops have been found. The process of applying for their license is in progress.