When it comes to alcohol, it is mostly assumed that men drink more than women, and many studies have even concluded these assumptions across the globe. However, there are parts in India where female alcohol consumers form a significant chunk of the total alcohol-consuming population. This data is as per the National Family Health Survey (2019-2021). So, here we are counting down 5 states in India with the highest female alcohol consumers.
5 Indian States With the Highest Female Alcohol Consumers
Arunachal Pradesh: 24.2%
The Northeast Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh tops the list of the highest female alcohol consumers in India. About 24.2% of women, almost 1/4th of the female population, enjoy alcohol regularly. Alcohol and drinking are an integral part of Arunachal Pradesh’s culture.
Many tribes and communities in the state give special importance to drinking in their culture, as it is thought to be more than just a leisurely activity. Traditional drinks like apong (rice beer) are commonly consumed in the state, and even a part of important rituals and celebrations.
Sikkim: 16.2%
Second on our list of states where you’ll find the most female alcohol consumers is Sikkim. The small, hilly state is home to beautiful rice paddy fields, tea gardens, and sprawling rainforests. However, the state is also home to about 16.2% of women who enjoy drinking alcohol. Sikkim’s local cultures are known to produce some of the best traditional alcoholic drinks, such as the Chhang and Tongba.
Both of these are millet-based fermented drinks that have been passed down from generations. Many communities like the Lepchas and Bhutias encourage drinking such fermented beverages as they hold cultural significance. Moreover, many women are predominantly involved in alcohol production – not just in Sikkim but also in other Northeast Indian states.
Assam: 7.3%
While 16.2% of Sikkim’s women consume alcohol, Assam has about 7.3% of its women consuming alcohol. The hilly Northeast Indian state of Assam, home to famous sites like the Kaziranga National Park and Majuli Island, is known for its relaxed alcohol policies.
Plus, Assamese culture places special importance on ritualistic consumption of alcohol. It is a part of many rituals and offerings in local Assamese tribal communities as these communities participate in communal alcohol brewing. Moreover, whisky is also a popular liquor consumed in the state.
Telangana: 6.7%
Not just Northeast India, but South India is not behind in the alcohol race. The state of Telangana has 6.7% of its women drinking alcohol. This number is close to that of Assam, which stands at 7.3%.
Women in both urban and rural centers of Telangana participate in drinking. Those in urban areas prefer whisky, beer, and other liquor, while women in rural areas depend mainly on country-made/desi liquor or traditional fermented beverages.
Jharkhand: 6.1%
The fifth spot on the list of highest female alcohol consumers in India has been taken by Jharkhand. About 6.1% of Jharkhand’s women drink alcohol. Jharkhand, though having urban centers and industries, is also home to plenty of indigenous tribes and rural communities where alcohol is regularly consumed.
Many local flowers, fruits, and seeds are used to make traditional, fermented alcoholic beverages. One of the best-known drinks from this region is Mahua liquor! It is produced using the Mahua flower. The indigenous liquor is slowly gaining international recognition for its distinct taste, preparation, and cultural significance.
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Why These States Have A High Number Of Female Alcohol Consumers
You must be wondering why certain states in India have a higher female population involved in drinking than others. Well, to begin with, a major reason is the socio-cultural setting of these communities. Many societies in Northeast India are matrilineal, meaning that lineage is passed down from the mother’s side.
These matrilineal societies empower their women by allowing them to inherit property and take part in the family and community decisions, ultimately granting them more liberty and independence. While drinking by women is seen as taboo in patriarchal societies, matrilineal societies do not adhere to such taboos.
Plus, a majority of alcohol production involves women in large numbers. Be it fermenting the products, extracting alcohol, or selling it, many women are actively a part of alcohol production. Also, these states have relaxed alcohol policies, allowing more men and women to engage in drinking.
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Summing Up
India’s drinking culture is truly quite diverse and rooted in our cultural sentiments. States like Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Assam are home to some of the highest numbers of alcohol-drinking women. This data shows how certain societies are more liberal about women drinking alcohol than others.
