Key Facts
Cooperation and Excise Minister M. Liju announced on Friday that the Kerala government will formulate a new liquor policy. The policy will replace the previous LDF government's approach, with changes aimed at benefiting the state and society.
Details of the New Liquor Policy
Speaking to reporters, Mr. Liju stated, "There will certainly be changes in the liquor policy. This is a new UDF government— not the policy of the previous LDF government." He added that discussions will commence after the State Budget on June 19, involving the UDF and all stakeholders. The objective is to create a policy that is beneficial to Kerala and guides society forward.
Anti-Drug Measures and Rehabilitation
The Minister highlighted that the Excise department is vigorously implementing 'Operation Thunder,' which has led to major seizures of hashish and other narcotics. A comprehensive anti-drug programme will be launched on June 26. Mr. Liju explained, "The Excise department at present functions on three pillars — enforcement, awareness, and de-addiction. We are now adding a fourth: rehabilitation." De-addiction centres in all 14 districts will be expanded to 66 taluk hospitals.
Manpower and Infrastructure Challenges
Mr. Liju noted that the department has only around 4,000 personnel and faces infrastructure limitations compared to the police force. Studies revealed deficiencies such as the absence of substance identification kits for immediate narcotic identification. Proposals to procure kits and strengthen infrastructure have been submitted through the Budget process. Additionally, delays in forensic testing—up to one-and-a-half years—prompted a proposal for a dedicated excise chemical examination laboratory. A comprehensive modernisation proposal has also been submitted.
Cooperative Sector Reforms
The government introduced the Ashwas Scheme, suspending attachment and auction proceedings for unpaid cooperative loans for three months while offering a one-time settlement. This provides relief to borrowers and helps institutions recover long-pending loans. Mr. Liju stated, "Revival and restructuring plans are being prepared, and a detailed package will be announced soon. Ensuring that depositors receive their deposits is a policy commitment of this government. A long-term, well-structured plan is being prepared to ensure depositors can recover their funds."
What Readers Should Know
- The new liquor policy will be formulated after the state budget on June 19.
- An anti-drug programme with a rehabilitation focus launches on June 26.
- Excise department faces manpower and infrastructure shortages, with modernisation proposals submitted.
- Cooperative sector gets relief through Ashwas Scheme and revival plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the new liquor policy be discussed?
Detailed discussions will begin after the State Budget, scheduled for June 19.
What is the new anti-drug programme called?
The comprehensive anti-drug programme will be launched on June 26, adding rehabilitation as a fourth pillar to the Excise department's functions.
Source: www.thehindu.com