Tipplers beware! Kerala to levy cess on liquor, tobacco

The Kerala government plans to levy a five per cent cess on liquor and tobacco products and the funds mopped through this measure would be utilised to support various youth welfare schemes.

The state Youth Policy, approved by the cabinet yesterday, also unveiled a set of proposals, including setting up of 'youth banks' to harness the entrepreneurial potential of youth by providing them soft loans.

The policy also proposes diversification of services provided by employment exchanges, setting up 'youth clinics' to ensure job security and publication of a higher education directory and online help-desk for benefit of those pursing higher studies.

As part of the policy, government would promote formation of co-operatives of young Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs) to mobilise their funds, expertise and experience to start business and industrial enterprises for the youth in the state, the policy document, released today said.

Giving emphasis on developing the sporting talent and health care, play grounds and swimming pools would be built in all village panchayats as common facilities.

The draft of the policy was circulated and widely discussed, for which as many as 16 workshops had been held in different parts of the state.

The National Youth Policy has also been factored in while drawing up the state policy and a high-level panel, headed by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy formed for monitoring its implementation.

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