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in alcohol intake among youths in the country, especially among those staying in college hostels, according to a recent ASSOCHAM survey.

The survey under ASSOCHAM'S Social Development Foundation indicated that alcohol intake in youths between the 19 to 26 age group in hostels has registered a whopping 60 per increase over the years.

Major cities and towns where respondents were interviewed by ASDF were Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad among others. The findings said that rural families spend 27 per cent of their income on alcohol, while the urban population spends 38 per cent.

As far as Tamil Nadu is concerned, sources in TASMAC (Tamil Nadu Marketing Sales Corporation) said the state ranks third in consumption after Punjab and Andhra Pradesh.In volume terms, the state tops the list as a result of higher taxes, they said.

Alcohol sales in the state from 2004 to 2008 have registered a 61 per cent increase. Brandy is the most preferred liquor for people, followed by rum and whisky. In 2007-2008, total sales in Tamil Nadu touched an all time high with TASMAC selling 3,08,57,263 cases, compared to 1,91,70,448 in 2004-2005, an increase of 60.9 per cent.

There has also been a steady increase in average sales per month. In 2007-2008, liquor sales was 25,71,439 cases, compared to 15,97,537 cases in 2004-2005, a 60.9 per cent increase.

TASMAC said 80 per cent of its revenues come from hard liquor and 20 per cent from beer.