Delhi's Liquor Sales Surge Amid Policy Shifts

Liquor sales in Delhi rose by 6% in 2024-25, despite a 12% drop in Indian beer sales over three years. The withdrawal of the 2021-22 excise policy and subsequent government control over retail vends impacted sales. Excise revenue increased by 11% as liquor brand registrations grew.

Liquor sales in Delhi have witnessed a 6% rise in the financial year 2024-25 compared to the previous year. A significant decline of 12% in Indian beer sales over three years has been noted, from 92.52 lakh cases in 2021-22 to 70.26 lakh cases in 2024-25.

The abrupt withdrawal of the 2021-22 excise policy disrupted retail trade. This policy was rescinded in July 2022 by the Delhi government amid allegations of irregularities, leading to a drop in the sales numbers.

In the fiscal year 2022-23, Indian beer sales peaked at 1.22 crore cases due to diverse brand availability at private liquor vends. However, sales declined as government agencies took over, and popular brands grew scarce. The excise revenue jumped to Rs 8,254.76 crore in 2024-25, and liquor store numbers rose to 714.

(With inputs from agencies.)