Thiruvananthapuram: Minister MB Rajesh stated that the government will modernise toddy shops and transform toddy into Kerala’s unique beverage. He also said that the government's liquor policy aims to make educational institutions alcohol-free and reduce people's addiction to liquor.

The new liquor policy is a continuation of the government's previous liquor policy. The government aims to reduce addiction to alcohol through the new liquor policy. The new liquor policy also plans to intervene to prevent use of drugs and chemical substances. The government aims to make educational institutions free of drugs, the minister clarified.

The government views alcohol as an industry. The focus is on increasing the export. The production of “Jawaan” liquor will be expanded. Permission will be granted to start Toddy parlours with three-star status and above. The government will modernise and renovate toddy shops. The aim is to transform these shops into spaces where families can visit together, the minister added.

The minister also mentioned that vigilance committees at both the school and district levels will continue to meet and plan anti-drug activities.