Gorkha municipalities begin branding local alcohol “Gandaki Kodo ko Raksi”

Gandaki Municipality has entrusted the branding and production to women’s groups, such as the Jalkanya Devi Farmers Group in Ward 2 and the Chisapani Women’s Group in Ward 6. The municipality has provided these groups with the necessary training and equipment to ensure quality production, including bottles and stickers.

Dipak Timilsina, Chairperson stated that the initiative is part of a program to promote millet and native crops. Farmers selling millet to these groups receive a subsidy of NPR 5 per kilogram. The alcohol is produced using pure millet and herbs, with the alcohol content measured for consistency before branding and packaging.

According to Yam Bahadur Thapa, Chairperson of Ward 2, only pure millet-based alcohol is used for branding, ensuring no adulteration. The branded alcohol is sold locally, including at homestays such as Gorkha Patishowra farm stay, though the demand for locally produced millet often exceeds supply.

Similarly, Ajirkot Rural Municipality plans to launch its brand, “Ajirkot,” by January. Dipak Devkota, Chairperson noted that standards and guidelines are being established to ensure legal compliance, with homestays playing a key role in production and distribution.

This initiative aims to curb the consumption of adulterated alcohol by promoting safe, locally branded products in the market.