Andhra Pradesh Government to Issue Notification for Liquor Retail Outlet Allocations Under New Excise Policy

The Andhra Pradesh government is set to release a notification for the allocation of liquor retail outlets as part of its updated excise policy. This move comes in response to necessary amendments to the Andhra Pradesh Excise Act, 1968, following changes made during the previous YSRC regime that had shifted retail liquor sales to state control.

The new amendments have been approved by the Cabinet, led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, as part of a broader effort to transition liquor retail back to private operators while ensuring responsible sales practices. Sources indicate that the amendments will be forwarded to the Governor for final approval, which is expected by Wednesday.

During the previous YSRC government, liquor sales were exclusively managed through state-run outlets, a system that aimed to control consumption and boost state revenue. However, the current administration plans to shift back to a privately-operated model, emphasizing transparency and compliance with stringent excise regulations.

The upcoming notification will clarify the application process for retail liquor licenses, as well as outline the eligibility criteria for prospective retailers. The government aims to implement this new excise policy in a way that balances the interests of public health, revenue generation, and business opportunities.

As the state moves towards privatizing liquor retail once again, officials are also expected to focus on stricter enforcement of the amended excise rules to ensure responsible retailing and consumption.