The state government has launched a new scheme under which empty liquor bottles sold through Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) outlets can now be returned — using a QR code-based tracking system. This move is part of a broader effort to implement the empty-bottle “buy-back” initiative across Tamil Nadu, following a directive by the Madras High Court. Under the scheme, customers pay an extra ₹10 per bottle at the time of purchase. The amount is refunded when they return the empty bottle at a Tasmac outlet and the bottle’s QR code is scanned. The QR-code system — which adds computerisation and transparency to record keeping — has already begun in several districts and will be gradually expanded to all outlets.
The state government and excise officials say the new system will help curb environmental damage from discarded bottles and encourage responsible disposal and recycling. While early reports note some teething issues in scanning and bottle returns in certain districts, officials say they are working to improve coverage and ensure the scheme functions smoothly statewide.