MAWM urges govt to legalise wine making

Wine makers of Meghalaya under the banner of Meghalaya Association of Wine Makers (MAWM) have urged the state government to consider legalisation of fruit wine production in the state. In a memorandum submitted to Excise Minister Abu Taher Mondal here yesterday the MAWM urged the state government to initiate process for legalising the production of fruit wine in the state to boost horticullture and fruits cultivation. Mizoram, a dry state for so many years, has legalised wine making from grapes and other fruits which benefit people of the state, MAWM president Michael N Syiem said. Legalising of fruit wine production in the state will give boost to horticulture which in turn benefit the rural economy, provide avenue for self employment and also attract tourists in the state, Mr Syiem said. Mr Syiem said, the look east policy of the union government will also provide a market for our fruit wines and further add incentive to wine trade. There has been growing number of home wine makers who got inspired through wine festivals and awareness about benefit of moderate consumption of wine, the association pointed out. The campaign to legalise the wine making in the state was started many years ago but the government has taken no decision till date. Wine in Meghalaya is being produced from fruits like black berries, passion fruit, strawberry, peach, pineapple, valencia, ginger, plum, watermelon and other fruits, the association said.