Odisha Introduces Tetra Pack Liquor, Phases Out Glass Bottles

Shift Towards Safer and Eco-Friendly Packaging
The Odisha government has introduced a major reform in its excise policy by allowing the sale of liquor in tetra packs instead of traditional glass bottles. Under the new guidelines, liquor will now be available in 180 ml tetra packs, aimed at reducing environmental pollution and improving public safety.

Tetra packs, commonly used for products like juices and milk, are made from paperboard, plastic, and aluminum foil. These packs will include six layers of protection to ensure durability and safety. Manufacturers must obtain certification from the Indian Institute of Packaging or the Central Food Technological Research Institute before producing such packaging.

Environmental Concerns Drive Policy Change
The move comes in response to rising concerns over environmental damage caused by discarded glass bottles. Broken bottles are frequently found near ponds, riverbanks, drains, and agricultural fields, posing serious risks to public safety.

There have also been instances where broken glass has caused injuries, and in some cases, glass bottles have been used in violent incidents. The shift to tetra packs is expected to significantly reduce such hazards.

New Guidelines for Liquor Sales in Tourist Areas
The policy also introduces new rules for liquor sales in coastal and tourist zones. Liquor shops will not be permitted on Puri beach, maintaining its cultural and religious sensitivity. However, other beach locations may be allowed to operate liquor outlets to boost tourism.

The Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) and the India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) will be granted liquor shop licenses at 50% of the standard fee. Additionally, OTDC will be allowed to sell liquor at eco-retreat sites through temporary licenses.

Affordable Licensing and Infrastructure Support
The government has set the annual license fee for small liquor kiosks at ₹75,000 under a special “on restaurant” category. OTDC can either directly operate these kiosks or assign the responsibility to private operators.

Basic infrastructure such as electricity, water supply, and waste management will be arranged by OTDC to ensure smooth functioning of these outlets.

Legislative Discussion and Government Response
The issue was raised in the state assembly by Champua MLA Sanatan Mahakud, who questioned whether alternatives to glass bottles would be implemented.

Responding to the query, Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan confirmed that tetra packs have been approved under the new excise policy. He emphasized that the decision supports environmental protection and reduces public safety risks.

The minister also noted that the government is encouraging the reuse of glass bottles wherever possible as part of broader sustainability efforts.

Balancing Revenue, Safety, and Sustainability
With this move, Odisha aims to strike a balance between revenue generation, tourism promotion, and environmental responsibility. The introduction of tetra pack liquor is expected to modernize the state’s excise system while addressing long-standing concerns over waste management and public safety.