Govt to examine demand for legalising wine-making

SHILLONG: The State Government has said it will study the long-pending demand for legalising wine-making in Meghalaya.
Speaking to media persons on Tuesday, Excise Minister Zenith Sangma said the matter will be studied in detail before reaching a decision.
He, however, batted for legalising wine-making saying it will promote tourism in Meghalaya.
“We will have to look at all the pros and cons of the matter since this exercise is connected with rules and laws,” he said.
Sangma also added that the matter needs to be discussed with the Law Department and legal experts and this is the reason that the Government till date could not reach to any decision regarding this matter.
“This will in turn increase the revenue generation of the state even if in a small way,” he agreed.
The Meghalaya Association of Wine Makers had earlier reiterated its demand to legalise fruit wine-making affirming Government control over its standardisation and overall quality.
However, several wine festivals have been conducted in the State earlier where wines made from different fruits were exhibited
Other wine-making organizations, including the Forever Young Club, have also demanded legalisation.