Tamil Nadu to set up committee to study other states liquor retail models
The Tamil Nadu government announced on July 9, 2026, that it will constitute a high-level committee to study the excise and liquor retail models of other states. This initiative aims to introduce further reforms to the state-run liquor retail system and address the service conditions and demands of its employees.
The committee will conduct detailed studies of the functioning of excise departments in several states, including Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. The study will focus on key areas such as liquor procurement, retail operations, and employee service conditions.
Minister for Prohibition and Excise K. Vignesh stated that the committee would be formed soon. According to the Minister, the order to constitute this panel will be issued under the direct instructions of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay.
"The committee will study the functioning of excise departments in Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha, among other States, including liquor procurement, retail operations, and employee service conditions," Minister Vignesh said. He added that the government would take concrete steps to address the demands of employees based on the findings of the committee.
This proposal follows a series of reforms already initiated by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government. Recent measures implemented by the administration include shutting down liquor outlets located near schools and places of worship, cracking down on overcharging at retail counters, and announcing a 25 per cent salary increase for workers.
The outcomes of the committee's study are expected to significantly influence the operations of the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac). Tasmac is a major revenue generator for the state government, operating a vast network of 4,048 retail liquor outlets. The corporation generates approximately ₹150 crore in daily revenue through these retail sales.
By examining the systems in neighboring and other states, the government plans to streamline Tasmac's retail network and improve working conditions for its workforce.
