Did TASMAC Achieve Record ₹790 Crore Alcohol Sales in TN During Diwali Festivities?
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Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) achieved historic liquor sales of ₹789.85 crore during the Diwali festivities, signaling a booming trend in alcohol consumption amid celebrations. This remarkable figure raises questions about the implications of such consumption on public health and societal norms.
Key Takeaways
- Record liquor sales of ₹789.85 crore during Diwali.
- Significant increase from last year’s ₹650 crore.
- Madurai zone led with ₹171 crore in sales.
- Concerns over public health implications.
- Festive bonuses contributed to increased spending.
Chennai, Oct 22 (NationPress) Diwali infused joy not only among the celebrants but also for the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC), which announced record liquor sales amounting to ₹789.85 crore in the three days preceding the festival.
The surge in demand was linked to festive bonuses, prolonged celebrations, and the extended weekend prior to the holiday.
TASMAC, managing 4,787 retail outlets throughout the state, usually sees an average daily transaction surpassing ₹150 crore. Nevertheless, on festive occasions and weekends, this number often escalates significantly, making this year’s Diwali rush one of the most substantial ever.
With employees from both the public and private sectors receiving their festival bonuses, patrons had additional funds to indulge, leading many to celebrate extravagantly.
Starting on the Saturday leading up to Diwali, liquor shops experienced long lines from noon until they closed at 10 p.m., as customers prepared for the festivities. The influx of shoppers even caused temporary interruptions in sales at several locations due to the overwhelming crowd.
According to official statistics, TASMAC sold ₹789.85 crore worth of liquor from Saturday to Monday — a notable increase compared to the ₹650 crore recorded during the same timeframe last year.
This shows an impressive ₹140 crore year-on-year increase in festive sales.
Regionally, the Madurai zone topped the sales chart with ₹171 crore, followed by Chennai (₹158 crore), Tiruchirappalli (₹157 crore), Salem (₹153 crore), and Coimbatore (₹150 crore).
In contrast, past Diwali figures were considerably lower — ₹230.66 crore in 2018, ₹293.73 crore in 2019, and ₹266.06 crore in 2020, indicating a consistent and sharp increase over the years.
TASMAC, a government-operated entity that significantly contributes to Tamil Nadu’s revenue, is under scrutiny once again for the social and economic ramifications of such extensive liquor consumption. While the state treasury benefits from the soaring sales, public health experts continue to voice concerns over the escalating drinking culture associated with festival spending habits.
At this moment, however, the record-setting numbers highlight how Diwali continues to illuminate not only homes across Tamil Nadu but also the state’s liquor trade coffers.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the dual-edged nature of TASMAC's soaring sales figures. While they signify economic prosperity for Tamil Nadu, they also raise pressing concerns regarding public health and the growing drinking culture in society. A balanced perspective is essential as we explore these trends.
NationPress
22/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the total liquor sales by TASMAC during Diwali?
TASMAC reported total liquor sales of ₹789.85 crore during the three days leading up to Diwali.
How do the current sales compare to last year's?
This year’s sales show a significant increase from ₹650 crore recorded during the same period last year.
Which region led the liquor sales during Diwali?
The Madurai zone topped the sales chart with ₹171 crore.
What factors contributed to the spike in liquor sales?
Factors include festive bonuses, extended celebrations, and a long weekend leading to increased disposable income.
What are the concerns related to the rising liquor sales?
Public health experts are concerned about the implications of a growing drinking culture associated with festival spending.
