Archive · 16 Aug 2025
Maharashtra Women Spearhead Alcohol Ban, Tackle Tobacco
In certain areas of Maharashtra, India, women are leading the charge to ban alcohol in their villages.
They're working with a group called Muktipath, supported by the government and other groups.
They do things like keep watch for alcohol, organize meetings, and use public shaming to discourage drinking.
The good news is that drinking and smoking have gone down a lot.
However, there are still challenges, like illegal alcohol coming in and a growing problem with drugs.
Women in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, are actively working to make their villages alcohol-free.
The Muktipath movement, with support from the Maharashtra government and others, is central to these efforts.
Women use various methods, including patrols, community meetings, and public shaming to curb alcohol sales and consumption.
The initiative has led to a significant reduction in alcohol consumption and tobacco use in the district.
Challenges remain, including illicit alcohol and the rising threat of drug use.
- Who
- Local women, with support from the Muktipath movement, the Maharashtra government, and others.
- What
- Women in Gadchiroli are spearheading an effort to make villages alcohol-free.
- When
- The Muktipath initiative began in August 2016, building on earlier efforts.
- Where
- In villages of Gadchiroli district, Maharashtra, India.
- Why
- To combat the negative effects of alcohol and tobacco on families and communities.
Supporters of Alcohol Ban
Opponents to Alcohol Ban
Alcohol consumption and community traditions
Supporters of Alcohol Ban
Emphasize the negative effects of alcohol on families, finances, and community well-being, and advocate for measures that curb its use and sales.
Opponents to Alcohol Ban
Some members of tribal communities legally consume traditional alcohol.
- Villages with Alcohol Ban
- 776
- Villages with Alcohol & Tobacco Ban
- 198
- Alcohol Consumption Drop (Men)
- 34.8%
- Tobacco Use Drop
- 23.9%
- Alcohol expenditure in 2025 (Expected)
- Rs 186 crore
- Alcohol expenditure in 2025 (Actual)
- Rs 88.9 crore