Mizoram Govt will table a bill permitting the sale of wine and beer made locally

Mizoram’s Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government plans to introduce a bill in the state parliament to change current regulations and allow the sale of locally produced wine and beer that is made from rice and fruits. Officials said the state, which has largely adhered to prohibition rules, aims to strike a balance between restricted exceptions and its dry legislation. Minister of Excise and Narcotics Lalnghinglova Hmar is scheduled to present the bill today. It will permit the licensed production, distribution, and sale of wine and beer produced solely from the grains and fruits of Mizoram if it is approved.

The bill also suggests that undistilled rural liquor, including traditional Mizo alcoholic beverages, be sold under strict regulations. Chief Minister Lalduhoma explained that the Mizoram Liquor (Prohibition) Act, 2019’s prohibition on the sale of hard liquor will not be lifted. Lalduhoma stated that after consulting with the state’s powerful churches, they agreed to the gradual transformation. “Our government will not permit the opening of liquor shops but will regulate the sale of locally produced wine and beer,” he said.

Citing the ban law’s economic impact, the ZPM government had last year announced preparations to revise it. Although there have been repeated efforts to completely repeal the booze ban, the administration has adamantly refused these requests. Following a brief four-year period during which booze sales were permitted, Mizoram reinstated prohibition in 2019 under the Mizo National Front (MNF) government. Except in some circumstances, the existing law forbids the sale and consumption of alcohol.