Top 7 states in India with highest female alcohol consumption

In India, many people prefer to drink alcohol, including adults from different age groups like Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z. While drinking was once seen as something mostly men did, that’s changing now. In some Indian states, more women are drinking alcohol than men. This is based on data from the National Family Health Survey (2019–2021). The rise in alcohol use among women is due to several reasons: local traditions, social acceptance, and changing lifestyles. In tribal areas, drinking local homemade alcohol is a part of daily life and special events. In cities, more women are drinking due to factors like stress, financial independence, and global influence. This shift shows how society in India is changing and becoming more open in many ways.

Arunachal Pradesh tops the list with 24.2% of women drinking alcohol. It's part of their tradition to serve “apong” (rice beer) to guests, making alcohol a natural part of social life in the state.

In Sikkim, 16.2% of women drink alcohol. Many families make their own local drinks like Chhaang, a popular millet-based beer. Alcohol is widely accepted and often used in festivals and daily life.

Assam has 7.3% of women who drink alcohol. Tribal groups here have a strong tradition of making and drinking alcohol. Whisky is one of the most popular choices among both men and women.

In Telangana, 6.7% of women consume alcohol. Drinking is more common in villages than in cities. Whisky and beer are the top choices, and social customs often influence drinking habits in rural areas.

Jharkhand sees 6.1% of women drinking alcohol. In many tribal regions, alcohol is part of cultural rituals. However, lack of jobs and poverty sometimes lead women to both drink and sell alcohol to survive.

On these islands, 5% of women consume alcohol. Popular drinks include Handia (rice beer), Toddy (palm wine), and Jungli. These drinks are often made locally and enjoyed in social and cultural gatherings.

In Chhattisgarh, 4.9% of women drink alcohol. Whisky and vodka are the most popular. Cultural acceptance and personal choice are key reasons why women here drink, making it a part of everyday life for some.