RANCHI, July 24 -- Chief minister Hemant Soren on Friday directed excise department officials to crack down strictly on the illegal manufacture, transport, sale, and smuggling of liquor, emphasising that illegal liquor production not only impacted government revenue but also posed a serious threat to consumers' lives and health.

"Swift and effective action against those involved in this illicit trade must be ensured at all costs," the CM said during a high-level review of the department of excise and prohibition at the state secretariat here.

During the meeting, Soren reviewed the status of departmental schemes, revenue collection, and the actions being taken to curb the illegal manufacture, storage, and smuggling of liquor in the state...