Mizoram farmers renews MLTP liberalisation demand

Aizawl, Jan 7 (UNI) Mizoram grape and guava growers today renewed their demand to liberalise Mizoram Liquor Total Prohibition Act (MLTP) for local wines following the popularity of Myanmar grape wine in the state.

All Mizoram Farmers Union (AMFU) officials here alleged that Myanmar had been importing wine to this state soon after the prohibition act.

Myanmar grape wine, considered as an less alcoholic drink, is being preferred by the locals, AMFU officials said.

Southern Mizoram produces abundant grapes and guavas but due to inadequate processing and marketing facilities, every year huge quantity of fruits are left to rot in the field.

''Earlier, we had urged the government to mull over modification of the Act but all in vain,''AMFU officials added.

The grape growers in the state were facing a lot of difficulty in commercialising the locally manufactured grape wine after it was declared as a contraband item under the MLTP Act UNI