Andhra Pradesh Unveils New Liquor Coverage: Non-public Retailers to Open Quickly

Andhra Pradesh’s authorities has introduced a serious shift in its liquor coverage, transferring from state-run retailers to personal possession. This new coverage, set to take impact from October 12, marks a major change within the state’s strategy to alcohol gross sales.

Below the brand new guidelines, 3,396 liquor licenses might be issued to personal people. The coverage will stay in impact for 2 years, till September 30, 2026. Purposes for these licenses are actually open, with each on-line and offline choices accessible. events can submit a number of functions, every requiring a non-refundable charge of Rs 2 lakhs.

The license distribution course of will culminate in a lottery draw on October 11, overseen by district collectors. Profitable candidates can start working their retailers from October 12. This transition interval will see the continuation of government-run retailers till the brand new personal shops are established.

License charges range based mostly on native inhabitants, starting from Rs 50 lakhs in areas with lower than 10,000 folks to Rs 85 lakhs in areas with over 5 lakh residents. These charges will enhance by 10% within the second yr and will be paid in six annual installments. Retailers will take pleasure in a 20% revenue margin.

The coverage additionally introduces ‘mannequin shops’ outdoors municipal firms and 12 premium shops in main cities like Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam. These premium shops will function beneath a five-year license, costing Rs 1 crore yearly.

In a transfer to make liquor extra reasonably priced, the federal government has diminished taxes, bringing down the worth of 1 / 4 bottle to Rs 99. This resolution reverses the worth hikes applied by the earlier administration.

Moreover, a brand new narcotics management obligation will fund initiatives towards drug abuse and help rehabilitation facilities. The coverage additionally addresses geographical restrictions, prohibiting liquor retailers in sure areas of Tirupati and close to particular landmarks.

This complete overhaul of Andhra Pradesh’s liquor coverage represents a major shift within the state’s strategy to alcohol gross sales and regulation, balancing income technology with social accountability measures.

-Sanyogita