Chittoor district intensifies surveillance on illicit liquor

Officials in Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh, are stepping up efforts to combat illegal liquor production and consumption. District Collector Sumit Kumar announced the initiative called Navodayam 2.0 during a press conference on March 23. Mr. Kumar emphasized that producing, selling, or transporting illicit liquor is a crime. Offenders could face legal action under the Preventive Detention Act. He mentioned that the administration would hold regular meetings with police and other departments to support this initiative. The Collector revealed that 52 villages in Chittoor have been identified for illicit liquor activities. They categorized the areas based on their level of involvement. Eight villages were classified as Category A, where liquor is produced and sold elsewhere. Seventeen villages fell under Category B, focusing on local production and consumption. The remaining 27 villages are involved in smuggling activities. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious liquor activity by calling a toll-free number, 14400. To further support the initiative, officials from the Excise and Prohibition department will frequently visit these identified villages. Awareness campaigns will also be launched to educate the public about the dangers of illicit liquor. This will include street plays and other outreach efforts, often involving non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The Collector instructed local enforcement staff to carry out regular raids and take legal action against violators, particularly in forested areas. Village revenue officers are also tasked with promptly reporting any illegal brewing activities.