New bar policy to be implemented in Andhra Pradesh from September 1st. The policy reserves 10% of licenses for Backward Classes and promotes low-alcohol beverages.
Andhra Bar Policy: The Andhra Pradesh government has announced a new bar policy, effective from September 1st, prioritizing public health and social security over solely considering alcohol-related activities as a source of revenue. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu clarified the policy's objective during a review meeting at the Secretariat. He stated that it is not just a means of earning revenue, but a matter connected to the state's social structure and public interest.
10% of Licenses Reserved for Backward Classes
A key feature of the new policy is the reservation of 10 percent of bar licenses for Backward Classes (BC). This reservation is in line with the reservation system already in place for retail liquor shops. This will provide new enterprise opportunities for backward classes and further social justice.
License Allocation Through Lottery System
The Naidu government has ensured that the license distribution process is transparent. For this, a lottery system will be adopted in the allocation of bar licenses. A minimum of four applicants will be required for each license. This will ensure competition and fairness.
License Fee to be Determined Based on Population
- The new policy classifies license fees based on the population of the area.
- License fee of ₹35 lakh in areas with a population of less than 50,000.
- ₹55 lakh for areas with a population of up to 5 lakh.
- ₹75 lakh for areas with a population of more than 5 lakh.
- This system will help maintain a balance between small towns and large metropolitan areas.
Potential Revenue: ₹700 Crore
The state government expects to generate approximately ₹700 crore in revenue through licenses and application fees from the new policy. However, the Chief Minister clarified that revenue generation is not the primary objective of this policy. He stated that the government's priority is to protect the poor and weaker sections of society from the harms of alcohol.
Promotion of Low-Alcohol Beverages
Chief Minister Naidu instructed officials to encourage bar owners to sell low-alcohol beverages. This will not only reduce alcohol consumption, but will also reduce the side effects on health. This step was deemed necessary to reduce the negative impact of alcohol, especially on the poor.
Strict Action Against Illicit Liquor
During the meeting, officials informed the Chief Minister that significant action has been taken against illegally distilled liquor (ID liquor) in the state. So far, 12 districts have been declared completely free of ID liquor. There are plans to include 8 more districts in this list in August. The target is to bring the remaining 6 districts into this category by September. This is a significant achievement that will strengthen the state's alcohol control policy.
Officials also stated that alcohol prices in Andhra Pradesh are lower compared to neighboring states and the quality is better. As a result, legal sales of alcohol have increased in border areas and illegal smuggling has decreased.
