‘Mahua flower products, including liquor, hold big market potential’

Emphasising the nutritional value and commercial potential of Ippa (Mahua) flower-based foods and beverages, Jadcherla Congress MLA J. Anirudh Reddy on Wednesday urged the State government to promote large-scale cultivation of Mahua trees and support the distillation of Mahua-based liquor.

He said the initiative would not only strengthen the livelihoods of Adivasi communities engaged in Mahua flower collection in the erstwhile Adilabad, Warangal and Khammam districts, but also generate substantial revenue for the State.

Speaking during the Demand for Grants for the 2026-27 financial year, Mr. Reddy noted the rising demand for liquor produced from Ippa (Madhuca longifolia) flowers in States like Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Goa, as well as in several foreign markets. Citing policy changes, he pointed out that Madhya Pradesh and other States have paved the way for a thriving Mahua economy. He also mentioned that the Madhya Pradesh government sells Mahua liquor under the brand Mond, priced at ₹800 for a 750-ml bottle. Goa, too, has officially included Mahua liquor under Indian Made Liquor (IML) category in its Excise policy.

Mr. Reddy further stated that companies in the United Kingdom and France are importing Mahua flowers from India to manufacture liquor, indicating strong global demand. He urged the State to proactively take up Mahua plantation drives, citing the economic opportunities they could unlock.

Highlighting the health benefits of Mahua flowers, the MLA recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reference to Ippa laddu made in Adilabad district and its nutritional richness in a ‘Mann Ki Baat’ episode. He also said a wide range of products including ice creams, cakes, energy drinks, wine, beer, tonic water and soft drinks can be made using Ippa flowers, offering scope for value-addition and enterprise.

Tracing the historical significance of Mahua liquor in tribal culture, Mr.Reddy noted that the drink was first banned during the British Raj, with colonial administrators claiming it was a harmful intoxicant. “The real motive was to push British-made liquor in India,” he alleged, adding that stringent restrictions on Mahua continued even after Independence.

Several legislators, including Ministers, were seen appreciating and supporting Mr. Reddy’s proposal during the session.