Myagdi, Dec 22: In a bid to address concerns about the influence on youth and the outflow of money from the village, Raghuganga Rural Municipality-5 in Myagdi has successfully enforced a ban on the sale and distribution of imported liquor. The prohibition, implemented as a trial a year ago, has proven to be effective, saving considerable funds and fostering positive changes within the community.

A unanimous decision was made on November 16, 2079, by various stakeholders in Jheen village, including people’s representatives, mothers’ groups, youth clubs, organizations, and local businessmen, to completely ban imported alcohol. The decision led to the cessation of liquor transportation from the city to the village, as all hotels and shops in the village complied with the ruling.

Man Bahadur Shermanja, the Ward Chairman of Raghuganga Rural Municipality-5, explained that the rule was introduced to prevent the youth from falling into destructive habits and to curb the outflow of money caused by the consumption of expensive imported alcohol. He highlighted the positive impact the rule had within a year, emphasizing a reduction in health complications and financial savings.

Concerns about the consumption of low-quality alcoholic beverages, such as karuva, prompted local residents to take action. The ban on imported alcohol led to the promotion of quality homemade alcohol within the village, offering an alternative to the youth and contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

Govind Paiza, a local social worker, noted that the restriction on imported alcohol has not only deterred the youth from harmful habits but has also led to substantial savings in ceremonial expenses, such as weddings and rituals. The rule has effectively eliminated the wasteful expenditure on imported drinks, further strengthening the cultural fabric of the village.

The success of this initiative mirrors a similar ban implemented by the local mothers’ group in Malika Rural Municipality-5 Magardang of Myagdi, showcasing the positive impact of community-led efforts to control the consumption of imported alcohol.