Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Production of heritage liquor in Alirajpur has come to a grinding halt as the steam boiler at the local manufacturing unit is dysfunctional since October.
The Self Help Group (SHG) which runs the unit, is currently surviving by selling off the remaining stock of heritage liquor. The stock itself is on the verge of being exhausted.
Adding to the woes, demand for the liquor has dipped due to complaints over the strong stench of Mahua flowers and its relatively high price. These factors have become a major concern for the ‘Hanuman’ the SHG which operates the unit.
Ankita, a member of the SHG and oversees maintenance of the plant producing heritage liquor by the brand name ‘ Mond’ told Free Press that the steam boiler has been completely non-functional since October.
“It is totally damaged. Whatever demand exists is being met by supplying the remaining stock,” she said, adding that only 10 to 11 boxes of heritage liquor are left. A new steam boiler has been purchased, and efforts are underway to restart production soon.
Ankita, whose mothers the head of SHG, said that feedback is regularly collected and concern over the liquor’s smell have been consistent. Plans are being made to improve the quality and change the flavour, however, for this research and development work which would cost between Rs 30 and Rs 40 lakh and so it is currently on hold due to a lack of funds, she added.
Ankita said that the liquor, marketed under the brand name “Mond,” is supplied to Bhopal, Indore and Gwalior. But the SHG lacks the means to gather direct consumer feedback from these cities. Since production stopped, the group’s income has dried up.
Ankita stated that the government had provided financial assistance of around Rs 54 lakh during the initial phase of the project. Since then, the SHG has been managing its finances independently.
