TN Government Enforces 21-Year Drinking Age, Shuts 717 Liquor Outlets

The Tamil Nadu government has intensified its efforts to curb alcohol consumption among minors by strictly enforcing the legal drinking age of 21 and announcing the closure of 717 Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) liquor outlets across the state.

The move comes amid growing concerns over rising alcohol consumption among young people and complaints regarding liquor shops located near sensitive public spaces.

According to senior officials of the TASMAC, all staff members have been instructed to verify the age of customers whenever there is doubt, including through Aadhaar cards and other identity documents.

As part of the crackdown, the state government has ordered the closure of 276 liquor outlets near places of worship , 186 outlets near educational institutions , and 255 outlets near bus stations .

Officials also indicated that the government is considering reducing the operating hours of liquor outlets. At present, TASMAC shops function from 12 noon to 10 pm , but a proposal to advance the closing time to 8 pm is under consideration.

Tamil Nadu currently has 4,765 TASMAC outlets functioning across the state. Following the implementation of the latest order, the number of operational shops will come down to 4,048 .

Despite the restrictions, liquor sales continue to remain a major source of revenue for the state government. In 2025, Tamil Nadu earned ₹48,344 crore through liquor sales , making it the second-highest revenue-generating sector after the registration department.

The government has warned of strict action against violators of the new regulations and said the measures are aimed at reducing public nuisance and restricting access to alcohol among minors.