TASMAC mandates digital payments for liquor sales over Rs 1,000

The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) will require digital payments for all retail liquor purchases exceeding Rs 1,000 starting November 1. The mandate applies to the state’s 4,048 retail liquor shops.

According to a TASMAC official, the transition aims to improve transparency and operational efficiency. The move is intended to address public complaints regarding overcharging above the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) by ensuring every transaction is logged in real time. Additionally, the policy seeks to mitigate safety risks associated with transporting large amounts of cash, reduce account discrepancies, and prevent the use of counterfeit currency.

While customers can still use cash for purchases within the Rs 1,000 limit, any single transaction above that threshold must be completed via UPI, debit, or credit cards. To prevent fraud, TASMAC has strictly prohibited staff from accepting payments through personal QR codes or individual bank accounts. Employees found violating these rules will face severe disciplinary action, and supervisors must issue physical bills for every purchase.