Liquor sales in Tamil Nadu saw a sharp rise during the Deepavali festival, with total sales crossing Rs 438 crore over two days, according to reports. However, the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac), which controls liquor sales in the state, expressed disappointment as the revenue was about Rs 29 crore lower than last year’s Deepavali sales, which reached Rs 467.63 crore.
Sales data showed some regional shifts in performance. While Madurai had led in liquor sales during Deepavali last year, Chennai took the top spot this year. On October 30, liquor sales in Chennai totaled Rs 47.16 crore, and surged to Rs 54.18 crore on Deepavali day, October 31. Madurai followed with Rs 40.88 crore on October 30 and Rs 47.73 crore on the festival day. In Tiruchy, sales were Rs 39.81 crore and Rs 46.51 crore on the two days, respectively.
Other major cities also posted strong sales, with Salem recording Rs 38.34 crore on October 30 and Rs 45.18 crore on October 31. Coimbatore reported Rs 36.40 crore and Rs 42.34 crore on the respective days.
Liquor sales continue to be a significant revenue source for the Tamil Nadu government. For the financial year ending March 31, 2024, the state earned a total of Rs 45,855.67 crore from sales tax and excise duties on liquor sold through Tasmac outlets, marking an increase of Rs 1,734.54 crore (a 2% rise) compared to the previous year, despite a price hike in February 2024.
