A panel will soon be set up to look into liquor retailing patterns in other states, says Prohibition and Excise Minister

Prohibition and Excise Minister K. Vignesh said that based on the committee’s findings, the government would take steps to address the demands of Tasmac employees. | Photo Credit: Photo File

The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government has launched a series of reforms in the state’s liquor retail system, from closing liquor shops near schools and places of worship to cracking down on overcharging at Tasmac counters and announcing a 25% pay hike for staff.

Her latest proposal is to set up a high-level committee to examine the functioning of excise and liquor retailing departments in other states with a view to introducing further reforms in Tamil Nadu.

Prohibition and Excise Minister K. Vignesh told The Hindu that the committee would be formed soon. “The committee will study the functioning of excise departments in Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, among others, including purchase of liquor, retail operations and service conditions of employees,” he said.

“Based on its findings, the government will take steps to address the workers’ demands,” he said. The order to set up the committee would be issued on the instructions of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, he added.

Tasmac, a major revenue generator for the Tamil Nadu government, operates 4,048 liquor retail outlets across the state. It generates around ₹ 150 crore in liquor sales every day through its retail network.

Published – 9 Jul 2026 23:04 IST