The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav, has announced plans to ban liquor in religious cities and towns of the state. This decision was publicized around mid-January 2025, with indications that the policy would be implemented starting from April 1, 2025, affecting 17 districts.
Liquor sales contribute significantly to state revenues. Closing liquor shops in religious areas could lead to a revenue shortfall, which would need to be offset elsewhere or through new taxation policies.
The 17 districts in Madhya Pradesh where liquor is set to be banned, particularly in religious cities or towns within these districts, are:
1. Ujjain
2. Amarkantak (located in Anuppur district)
3. Maheshwar (Khargone district)
4. Orchha (Niwari district)
5. Omkareshwar (Khandwa district)
6. Mandla
7. Multai (Betul district)
8. Mandla (Narmadaghat) - This might refer to the area in Mandla district along the Narmada River.
9. Jabalpur
10. Chitrakoot (Satna district)
11. Maihar (Satna district)
12. Salkanpur (Sagar district)
13. Mandaleshwar (Khargone district)
14. Mandsaur
15. Barman
16. Panna
17. Rewa (though not explicitly mentioned, it’s often included in such lists due to its religious significance)