The Andhra Pradesh government recently released a notification for its new liquor policy, inviting applications for licenses to operate 3,396 liquor stores. The policy will be in effect from October 12, 2024, to September 30, 2026. Applications can be submitted online, and the excise department has already started accepting them from Tuesday, according to Director Nishant Kumar. Private liquor shops are expected to open by the 12th of October, and an auction for liquor store licenses will be held on October 11.
Key Highlights:
License Application Fee: Each application requires a non-refundable fee of Rs. 2 lakhs. Even if a license is not granted, the fee will not be refunded. Successful applicants can begin operating stores starting October 12.
Government Revenue Impact: A concerning report has emerged stating that 961 liquor stores have yet to receive a single application. Some MLAs are allegedly instructing business owners not to apply, impacting potential revenue for the state.
Unsubmitted Applications: Districts like Tirupati, Nellore, Prakasam, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, and Sri Sathya Sai have reported zero applications for a large number of shops.
Application Surplus in Select Districts: However, districts like Vizianagaram and Eluru saw higher application numbers, with over 800 applications in Vizianagaram alone.
Revenue Shortfall: The government expected over 100,000 applications, generating approximately Rs. 2,000 crores. However, only 8,274 applications have been submitted so far, resulting in an estimated revenue of Rs. 165.48 crores, much lower than anticipated.
Political Interference: Allegations have surfaced that some MLAs are demanding a share of the profits without investing, which has discouraged applications and caused delays.