Patna: The success of Bihar’s alcohol prohibition is being credited largely to women, said Minister of Excise and Prohibition, Bijendra Prasad Yadav, during the state’s annual Nasha Mukti Diwas (Drug-Free Day) celebrations on November 26, 2025. He emphasized that it was women’s demand and support that prompted Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to take the bold decision of implementing the prohibition law for social welfare and a better future.
The event was organized at the Chief Secretariat Auditorium in Patna and was broadcast live across all districts to raise awareness about substance abuse and promote a drug-free lifestyle.
Minister Highlights Women’s Role in Prohibition
Addressing the gathering, Minister Yadav noted that while there were initial challenges and skepticism, the government’s firm determination, combined with women’s support, helped overcome all obstacles. “Alcohol is a serious issue affecting the physical, mental, and social well-being of individuals. It impacts families, communities, and the nation at large. Earlier, the state earned around ₹6–7 thousand crore annually in revenue from this sector. Today, prohibition has brought positive social and economic changes,” he said.
Government and Officials Participate in Awareness Drive
The program was attended by Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit, Additional Chief Secretary of Education Dr. B. Rajendra, ADG Excise Amit Jain, Secretary of SC-ST Welfare Divesh Sehra, CEO of Jeevika Himanshu Sharma, Department Secretary Ajay Yadav, and Commissioner of Excise Anshul Agrawal. During the event, Minister Yadav and Chief Secretary Amrit flagged off awareness campaign vehicles, including the prohibition promotion bus and rath, to increase public engagement.
Improvement in Families’ Economic Conditions
Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit highlighted the positive impact of the prohibition law since its implementation in April 2016. “Thanks to the public’s cooperation, the law has remained effective despite challenges. Festivals, weddings, and public gatherings no longer witness alcohol consumption as before. The law has improved public health, social harmony, and family economic conditions,” he said.
Youth and Women Benefit from Drug-Free Initiatives
Department Secretary Ajay Yadav said Bihar is a leader in drug-free initiatives nationwide. “With 57% of Bihar’s population under 25 years, compared to 47% nationally, a drug-free Bihar channels youth energy into productive directions, while ensuring the safety and dignity of women. The state employs police forces, motorboats, sniffer dogs, breath analyzers, and modern technology for strict enforcement of the law,” he added.
Empowerment Through Jeevika Scheme
As part of the continuous livelihood program, Jeevika beneficiaries received a cheque worth ₹50.63 crore. To date, 2,01,218 women have benefited from the program, helping empower women economically while supporting prohibition objectives.
Honoring Law Enforcement and Awareness Initiatives
Officers from the excise department, police inspectors, and motorboat in-charges were felicitated with medals, certificates, and awards for outstanding work in enforcing the prohibition law. The event also showcased a short film on alcohol prohibition, highlighting raids, night patrolling, social media campaigns, and Jeevika women’s contributions. Children from Kilkari Bal Grih performed songs promoting sobriety, while students from Patna College of Arts and Crafts displayed paintings and sculptures encouraging youth to stay away from alcohol.
The celebration brought together government officials, Jeevika women, police personnel, and students, reflecting Bihar’s ongoing efforts toward a drug-free society and the crucial role women have played in its success.
