The alcohol ban in Bihar since 2016 has resulted in increased consumption of calories, protein, and healthy fats from nutritious food sources, as per a study by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur researchers. The prohibition, implemented under the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act by the Nitish Kumar-led government, notably raised intake of calories, protein, and fats from sources like pulses, dairy products, and nut-based oils.
This move also led to a decrease in the consumption of packaged and processed foods, often associated with alcohol use. Vinayak Krishnatri from the Department of Economic Sciences at IIT Kanpur highlighted that apart from freeing up household resources, the ban triggered positive behavioral changes. Reduced alcohol consumption was linked to reduced marital conflicts, enhanced household stability, and a greater focus on spending on nutritious food.
In a study published in the journal Agricultural Economics, the researchers analyzed household-level data from two rounds of the Consumer Expenditure Survey conducted by the National Sample Survey Office. By comparing Bihar with neighboring states like Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, the researchers aimed to consider broader time trends and regional economic shifts.
The research demonstrated that the alcohol prohibition led to a redirection of household resources towards healthier food choices rather than unhealthy options. Notably, urban areas witnessed more significant improvements, reflecting the ban’s better enforcement in these regions. Contrary to concerns, households did not divert these savings towards unhealthy food items.
The study also highlighted an increase in protein intake in Bihar, traditionally dominated by cereal-based diets. It noted a shift from low-quality, unhealthy fats to better-quality cooking oils, enhancing overall dietary standards. The alcohol ban in Bihar primarily targeted reducing domestic violence and alcohol-related social issues, but it also unexpectedly brought nutritional and health benefits.
Prof. Sukumar Vellakkal, co-author and Associate Professor at the Department of Economic Sciences, IIT Kanpur, emphasized that the ban led to substantial enhancements in diet quality by redirecting household expenditure from alcohol to food.
