Alcohol, especially ethanol, is a psychoactive substance that affects the central nervous system (CNS). When drinking alcohol, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. Alcohol is metabolized by the liver and broken down into acetaldehyde which is then converted to acetate and finally excreted. The effects of alcohol on the CNS are complex and multifaceted. For millennia, drinking alcohol has been an integral part of human culture, playing a significant role in traditions, ceremonies and daily life all over the world. From ancient Egyptian rituals to modern social events, alcohol has been both celebrated and vilified. While moderate consumption of alcohol can be a source of pleasure, relaxation and social bonding, excessive or chronic use can have many adverse effects. These effects not only compromise physical and mental health, but also disrupt relationships, social stability and economic well-being. But drinking is no longer just a culture, drinking now defines people’s status. It has become the modern norm in modern society.
No event or activity is complete without alcohol. This environment is slowly bringing danger to everyone. India has 38.5 alcohol-related deaths per 100,000 population (both sexes). This is an increase for Indian males (63.0), while for Indian females it is 13.5. On average, only 1.2% of Indian women consume alcohol, while the national average for men is 29.2%. Both male and female alcohol consumption is high in the north-eastern and eastern states of India. Arunachal Pradesh is the top state in terms of alcohol consumption. With 52.6% of the total population consuming alcohol, the state has the highest proportion of both male and female alcoholics. The second largest state is Telangana, which has the highest alcohol consumption in rural areas. However, our country has benefited in some ways from people drinking alcohol. For 2023-24, the government will earn Rs 53.93 crore through special duties on imported foreign liquor while the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation will earn Rs 16.70 lakh from service charges. A total of 3,20,024 cases of beer were exported during 2023-24 and revenue from beer exports was ₹187.79 lakh. In low doses, alcohol can stimulate the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, creating feelings of relaxation, euphoria, and social bonding. However, as alcohol consumption increases, alcohol consumption can impair cognitive function, judgment, and motor coordination, leading to a range of negative consequences.