World · India Bureau
Kerala Government Cancels Bakery's Horti-Wine Licence, Transfers Officer
Kerala authorities have revoked a novel liquor licence granted to a bakery for producing 'horti-wine', a beverage intended to generate additional revenue for fruit farmers across the state. The decision was accompanied by the transfer of the excise official who approved the unusual permit.
LSN India ·
The Kerala government has reversed its approval of an experimental horti-wine licence issued to a bakery, citing irregularities in the licensing procedure. The horti-wine product was conceptualized as a value-added beverage derived from locally grown fruits including pineapple, mango, banana, and jackfruit, with the primary objective of supplementing farmer incomes through expanded market opportunities.
The cancellation marked a significant reversal of the state's initial efforts to diversify agricultural revenue streams through innovative processing and commercialization of horticultural produce. Officials indicated that the decision reflected concerns over procedural compliance in the issuance of the licence.
In connection with the licence revocation, the excise department has transferred the officer responsible for approving the permit. The transfer decision underscores the state administration's determination to enforce regulatory protocols in the licensing of alcoholic beverages, even those derived from agricultural products.
The horti-wine initiative, had it proceeded, would have represented an unconventional approach to agricultural value addition in Kerala's beverage sector. Farmers cultivating the specified fruits had viewed the project as a potential avenue for improved economic returns during surplus production periods.