Odisha Govt to Promote Millet-Based Liquor Production

Bhubaneswar: In a significant step to diversify its liquor industry and boost local agriculture, the Odisha government has unveiled plans to promote the brewing of liquor from millets. This announcement was made during a review meeting of the Excise Department, chaired by Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan.

The state government is actively engaging with specialized firms with expertise in millet-based liquor production. Discussions are underway to set up the infrastructure and support necessary for producing liquor from this indigenous crop. To incentivize the initiative, the government has decided to offer subsidies for millet liquor brewing in the state.

Furthermore, the government is also planning to introduce measures to enhance the production of mahua-based liquor, focusing on creating high-quality and flavored versions. In addition to these initiatives, efforts are being made to establish the production of premium foreign liquor within Odisha.

Minister Harichandan explained, “Our aim is to support and promote the brewing of liquor from millets and mahua. The upcoming Excise Policy for 2025-26 will include provisions to combat illicit liquor production and foster legitimate, high-quality liquor manufacturing.”

The Odisha government is also looking beyond local markets, with plans to explore the export potential of its high-quality liquor to other states and international markets. Excise Commissioner Narasingha Bhol highlighted the long-term vision for this initiative, which includes strengthening the state’s liquor industry and providing economic opportunities through innovative products.

This initiative marks a bold and strategic move by the Odisha government to combine the state’s agricultural resources with the growing liquor industry, creating new avenues for economic growth and sustainable development.