November 2, 2025

The Delhi government is cooking up spicy changes in its liquor business! The new excise policy draft, expected soon, will shake things up by keeping all liquor sales under government control. According to TOI sources, the plan is to shut out private retailers completely and focus on bigger, better, and smarter liquor stores. Picture this: liquid shops located mainly in malls and shopping spots, with more space and better design for an enjoyable buying experience. Currently, four government bodies—Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC), Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC), Delhi State Civil Supplies Corporation (DSCSC), and Delhi Consumers’ Cooperative Wholesale Store—run more than 700 liquor stores in Delhi. But many of these shops are small and cramped. The new draft wants to change that, offering roomy, well-stocked stores so shoppers can pick from a wider array of choices. Another big spice in this recipe? Moving liquor shops away from schools, homes, and religious places. The draft suggests stricter rules to keep these stores at a safe distance, blending social responsibility with business needs. This move aims to keep Delhi safe and smart, says a senior official. Here’s the hot new twist: the current fixed profit system will get a big overhaul. Right now, stores make a fixed Rs 50 profit on each Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) bottle and Rs 100 on imported ones, no matter their price or quality. Officials say this system causes shops to stock only cheaper brands. The new draft wants to reward stores for stocking premium and diverse liquor brands, motivating retailers to offer more exciting choices. Why this change? Back in 2021-22, the AAP government had allowed private liquor sellers to boost revenue. But corruption whispers and allegations forced the government to shut down private outlets and bring back government-run shops by September 2022. The current setup was supposed to be temporary but now will continue till at least March 31, 2026. The final draft of this zesty new policy will be approved after a committee meeting and then by Delhi’s cabinet and Lieutenant Governor. After that, the public will get their say before the policy goes live. Delhi’s move signals a fresh, transparent, and socially aware chapter in liquor retail—offering modern shops, fair pricing, and better shopping for all! "Raising or revising margins will motivate retailers to stock a wider range of high-end products rather than pushing cheaper brands," said an official involved in drafting the policy. Stay tuned as Delhi stirs the pot on liquor sales with ambition, care, and a splash of style!

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Tags: Delhi Excise Policy, Liquor Stores, Government-Run Outlets, Profit Margin Changes, Social responsibility, Liquor Retail Reform,