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

Liquor sales saw a significant surge during the Deepavali festival in Tamil Nadu, reportedly crossing Rs 438 crore within just two days, as per a report.

Despite this impressive figure, the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac), which holds a monopoly on liquor sales in the state, expressed disappointment as the earnings fell short by approximately Rs 29 crore compared to last year's sales of Rs 467.63 crore during the same period in 2023, DT Next reported.

The revenue trends showed a shift in regional performance. While Madurai led the sales last year, this year saw Chennai taking the top spot. On October 30, liquor sales in Chennai hit Rs 47.16 crore, climbing to Rs 54.18 crore on Deepavali day, October 31. Madurai followed with Rs 40.88 crore on October 30 and Rs 47.73 crore on the festival day. In Tiruchy, sales figures were Rs 39.81 crore and Rs 46.51 crore on the two days, respectively.

Other major regions also recorded robust sales. Salem posted figures of Rs 38.34 crore on October 30 and Rs 45.18 crore on October 31. Coimbatore reported sales of Rs 36.40 crore and Rs 42.34 crore on the respective days.

Liquor sales have long been a significant source of revenue for the Tamil Nadu government. For the financial year ending March 31, 2024, the state earned an impressive Rs 45,855.67 crore from sales tax and excise duty on liquor sold through Tasmac outlets. This marked an increase of Rs 1,734.54 crore from the previous year's revenue, indicating a 2% rise despite a price hike in February 2024.