Thiruvananthapuram: The Pinarayi government has given its approval to the liquor policy for the year 2023-24. The new liquor policy was officially sanctioned during a recent Cabinet meeting. As part of the policy, significant changes are expected in the management and functioning of toddy shops, aligning them with the ideas of the new economic policy.
As part of the new liquor policy, the promotion of toddy tapping will be encouraged across the entire state through plantation initiatives. The policy emphasizes making toddy available in all liquor outlets under the name “Kerala Toddy,” making it as the state’s own brand. Furthermore, toddy shops will be granted Star status based on their quality and facilities, aiming to enhance their overall standards. In line with these changes, the fees for obtaining a bar license have been revised. The new bar license fee rate has been increased by Rs. 5 lakh, bringing the total fee to Rs. 35 lakh from the previous Rs. 30 lakh.
Moreover, the liquor policy proposes to boost the production of liquor within the state. As part of this effort, the regulations concerning the quantity of toddy that can be collected from a coconut tree will be re-evaluated to potentially accommodate increased production.
Despite the implementation of the new liquor policy, there is no provision to eliminate the Dry Day on the first of every month. As a result, the existing Dry Day on the first of each month will continue as before. The decision to retain the Dry Day was influenced by objections from trade unions, which opposed its removal. Under the new liquor policy, the state will focus on promoting the production of spirits, encouraging growth and development in this sector.
The updated liquor policy of Kerala reflects the government’s intent to tap into the potential of toddy, the local alcohol, as a means to enhance the state’s tourism industry. The primary objective is to revitalize, promote, and modernize the traditional toddy-tapping industry, which holds centuries-old significance in Kerala. To attract tourists, the government plans to showcase Kerala’s cuisine and toddy culture through local toddy shops, which will be transformed into public eateries.
Initially scheduled for release in April, the announcement of the new liquor policy faced some delays due to unforeseen reasons. However, the government is now moving forward with the implementation of its strategies to leverage toddy’s appeal and boost tourism in the state.
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