Mizoram Government Issues Licenses to Four Wineries Under New Amendment
In a significant development, the Mizoram government has officially issued licenses to four wineries, authorizing them to manufacture wine and beer. This move comes with the explicit permission of the state government, as confirmed by State Excise & Narcotics Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar during a session in the state legislative assembly on Thursday.
Revenue Generation and Licensing Details
Minister Hmar disclosed that the state government has collected over Rs 6.20 lakh in revenue through various fees associated with these licenses. This revenue includes amounts from license fees, label registration fees, and import fees for extra neutral alcohol (ENA), which is a key ingredient in the production process.
Legal Framework Amid Dry Law
Despite Mizoram being under a dry law, the recent Mizoram Liquor (Prohibition) Amendment Act, 2025 has created a legal pathway for the manufacture, sale, and supply of local fruit beer. This beverage must be made from agricultural products sourced within Mizoram, aligning with the amendment's provisions to promote local agriculture and industry.
Political Context and Opposition
The amendment was passed by the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government in the state legislature, even in the face of objections from opposition legislators. This highlights the government's commitment to implementing changes that could boost the local economy, despite political disagreements over the relaxation of liquor laws.
The establishment of these wineries marks a pivotal shift in Mizoram's approach to liquor regulation, potentially opening up new economic opportunities while navigating the complexities of the state's historical dry law stance.
