Farmers seek lifting of toddy ban as TVK govt. considers permitting resto-bars
Farmers in Tamil Nadu are demanding the lifting of a long-standing ban on toddy, arguing that it is a traditional beverage and would provide economic benefits. The demand follows government discussions about permitting resto-bars in the state.
Why it matters
The debate touches on agricultural policy, state revenue, and the cultural preservation of traditional food and beverage practices.
Following reports that the State government plans to permit resto-bars to operate, as in neighbouring States, farmers demanded that the ban on toddy be lifted, noting that no such prohibition exists in those States.
After TVK came to power, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay closed the 717 Tasmac outlets that operated within 500 meters of bus stands, temples, and educational institutions. Amid reports that the government is considering permitting resto-bars to reduce the number of bars attached to TASMAC outlets—a move opposed by the AIADMK, PMK and BJP—farmers say the time is right to lift the ban on toddy.
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