The latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) data reveals that 10.5% of men and 0.2% of women aged 15-49 in Jammu Kashmir consume alcohol.
While these figures are lower than the national average, they highlight a growing concern, particularly in a region already grappling with substance abuse issues.
The data, presented in the Rajya Sabha, shows that while male alcohol consumption has remained steady, female consumption has doubled from 0.1% in NFHS-4 (2015-16) to 0.2% in NFHS-5 (2019-21).
The region’s excise revenue from alcohol sales has surged from Rs 991.55 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 2486.34 crore in 2023-24, reflecting a growing market despite the social challenges associated with alcohol consumption.
Three members of the Legislative Assembly—Mir Mohammad Fayaz from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad from Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), and Ahsan Pardesi from the National Conference (NC)—have introduced bills seeking a complete ban on alcohol in Jammu and Kashmir.
These bills will be tabled in the upcoming budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on March 3.