The Telangana government has issued orders implementing a 15% hike in beer prices, effective from the night of February 11. As per the revised rates, the price of a light beer has increased from Rs 150 to Rs 180, while a strong beer, previously priced at Rs 160, now costs up to Rs 200. The price hike translates to an additional Rs 30 per light beer and Rs 40 per strong beer.
The government has also mandated that existing stock be sold at the updated rates, with revised MRP labels reflecting the price increase. With a 15% rise in the basic price of a beer case, additional taxes—including VAT and excise duty—are estimated to add Rs 250 to Rs 280 per case.
The decision follows sustained pressure from liquor companies, which have been urging the government to revise prices. A leading multinational beer company, which holds approximately 60% of the state’s liquor market, proposed a 30.1% increase in the basic price. Other companies also sought similar revisions.
A three-member pricing committee, headed by retired judge Jaiswal, recommended a 15-19% price increase in its report to the government. Following this, the Telangana government approved a 15% hike in the basic price of beer.