Did Kerala Achieve Record Liquor Sales This Onam?
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Synopsis
Kerala has set new records for liquor sales during the Onam festival, raising important discussions around public health and revenue generation. As consumption trends escalate, the implications for society become increasingly significant.
Key Takeaways
- Record liquor sales during Onam reached Rs 826.38 crore.
- The sales increased by Rs 50 crore compared to last year.
- On Uthradam day, sales peaked at Rs 137 crore.
- The Karunagappally outlet had the highest sales.
- Concerns over health implications continue to grow.
Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 5 (NationPress) The Onam festival season has witnessed an unprecedented surge in liquor sales in Kerala, with revenue exceeding last year's totals.
Reports indicate that in the ten days leading up to Uthradam, liquor sales reached an astounding Rs 826.38 crore, which is approximately Rs 50 crore more than the same timeframe last year.
On Uthradam day alone, liquor sales hit Rs 137 crore, a notable increase from Rs 126 crore on the same day in 2024.
This significant growth underscores the persistent demand for liquor during the state's most celebrated festival.
The Karunagappally store emerged as the top seller, achieving Rs 146.08 lakh on Uthradam day, followed by the Asramam outlet in Kollam with Rs 123 lakh, and the Edappal outlet at Rs 110.79 lakh.
Six outlets across Kerala surpassed Rs one crore in sales during the festive season.
The revenue from liquor sales is crucial for the Kerala government, which consistently ranks highest in per capita alcohol consumption in India, relying heavily on income from state-operated liquor stores.
Officials noted that the increase in Onam sales has significantly bolstered the state’s finances.
However, health experts and social organizations have voiced concerns regarding the rising alcohol consumption during festive times, emphasizing the social and health implications of excessive drinking.
According to statistics, around 32.9 lakh out of 3.34 crore residents in Kerala consume liquor, including 29.8 lakh men and 3.1 lakh women.
Approximately five lakh individuals drink liquor daily, with 83,851 people (including 1,043 women) identified as alcohol-dependent.
The latest figures highlight Onam as the primary catalyst for liquor sales in Kerala. As this year's sales reach a new zenith, the ongoing discourse between revenue generation and public health concerns is anticipated to persist.
Point of View
The record liquor sales in Kerala during Onam highlight the complex balance between economic benefits and public health concerns. While the revenue generated is undeniably significant for the state's finances, it raises pressing questions about the implications of rising alcohol consumption on societal well-being.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the total liquor sales in Kerala during Onam?
Liquor sales in Kerala during the Onam season reached a record high of Rs 826.38 crore.
How much did liquor sales increase compared to last year?
Sales increased by approximately Rs 50 crore compared to the same period last year.
Which outlet registered the highest sales on Uthradam day?
The Karunagappally store recorded the highest sales at Rs 146.08 lakh.
What concerns have been raised regarding liquor consumption?
Health experts and social groups have expressed concerns about the rising alcohol consumption and its social and health costs.
How many people in Kerala consume liquor?
Around 32.9 lakh people out of 3.34 crore in Kerala consume liquor.
