Alcohol Sales In Tamil Nadu: How Much Did State Sell Liquor On Pongal?

Tamil Nadu witnessed a significant spike in liquor sales during this year's Pongal festivities, with the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) reporting alcohol sales worth ₹725.56 crore between January 13 and 16. This marks an increase of ₹46 crore compared to the ₹678.65 crore earned during the same period last year.

Steady Growth in Sales

According to data accessed by The New Indian Express, Tasmac registered a total revenue of ₹2,462.97 crore from January 1 to 16, up from ₹2,300.23 crore in 2024. This 7.07% increase reflects an additional ₹162.74 crore in revenue.

Crackdown on Illegal Liquor Sales

Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies intensified their efforts to curb illegal liquor sales in the state during Pongal. In Mayiladuthurai district, 33 individuals were arrested as part of a police crackdown led by the Prohibition Enforcement Wing and local police stations.

Key highlights of the operation include:

Cases Registered: 28 cases against illegal liquor sales.
Liquor Seized: 1,489 litres of liquor.
Vehicles Seized: Two two-wheelers used for transporting illicit alcohol.

2024 Statistics

The district recorded substantial enforcement activity last year as well:

Illegal Liquor Cases: 3,547 cases registered.
Arrests: 3,603 individuals detained.
Liquor Confiscated: 74,975 litres seized.
Vehicle Seizures: 41 two-wheelers and eight four-wheelers impounded.
Preventive Detention: 12 individuals detained under the Goondas Act.

Balancing Festive Celebrations and Public Safety
While Tasmac continues to generate record-breaking sales, particularly during festivals like Pongal, the state government is also ramping up efforts to combat illegal alcohol-related activities. The dual focus underscores the government's approach to balancing the economic benefits of legal liquor sales with the need to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law.

The sharp rise in sales during the festival season, coupled with rigorous enforcement measures, reflects Tamil Nadu's intricate relationship with alcohol consumption and regulation.