VIJAYAWADA: New Liquor Policy Set for Implementation
The Andhra Pradesh government is preparing to roll out a new liquor policy starting October 1. The Group of Ministers (GoM) tasked with studying and developing this policy will present its recommendations to the Cabinet on Wednesday for final approval. Notably, the government plans to allocate 10% of liquor outlets to toddy tappers.
Following a review meeting with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu at the Secretariat on Tuesday, GoM members, including Ministers Kollu Ravindra (Excise), Nadendla Manohar (Civil Supplies), Satya Kumar Yadav (Medical and Health), and Kondapalli Srinivas (MSME, SERP), emphasized that their report was informed by studies of liquor policies in six other states. They aim to ensure the availability of quality liquor at affordable prices.
“Unlike the previous YSRC government, which compromised consumer health by pushing low-quality ‘J’ brands, our new policy will prioritize quality,” the Ministers stated.
Financial Misconduct Allegations
Excise Minister Kollu Ravindra accused the former government of enabling a corrupt liquor policy, resulting in an estimated Rs 19,000 crore being siphoned off over the past five years. He claimed that an ineligible individual was placed in charge of the liquor business, undermining the enforcement system.
Ravindra noted that price increases under the previous administration led many to turn to drugs, while YSRC leaders allegedly encroached on distilleries to produce inferior liquor. An investigation into the previous liquor policy's irregularities is underway, and those involved will be held accountable.
Goals of the New Policy
Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar highlighted that the new policy aims to provide quality liquor at lower prices, attract investments, and create jobs. The plan includes establishing premium outlets and simplifying the tax structure, with a focus on linking tourism and excise to boost visitor numbers.
Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav criticized the previous government for selling sub-standard liquor, noting a rise in kidney and liver disease cases from 36,000 between 2014 and 2019 to 56,000 in the past five years. He also mentioned that the previous administration took Rs 13,000 crore in loans for the AP Beverages Corporation.
SERP Minister Kondapalli Srinivas added that the increase in widow pensions due to liquor-related deaths underscores the need for a robust new policy. The government aims to establish a superior liquor framework moving forward.