Is the Kerala government set to reject the liquor home delivery proposal?
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Synopsis
The Kerala government appears unlikely to approve BEVCO's liquor home delivery proposal, citing potential electoral controversy. This initiative aimed to boost revenue but faced strong opposition from bar owners. With elections on the horizon, the proposal may be shelved for now.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala government unlikely to approve liquor home delivery.
- Proposal faced opposition from bar owners.
- Age restrictions suggested for online purchases.
- BEVCO's revenue continues to rise.
- Liquor sales are crucial for state finances.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 11 (NationPress) The Kerala government has effectively decided against endorsing the Kerala State Beverages (Marketing & Manufacturing) Corporation Limited’s (BEVCO) initiative to facilitate home delivery of liquor.
Sources indicate that the Pinarayi Vijayan administration believes it could spark controversy as two significant elections—the local body and assembly elections—are approaching.
The proposal, presented by Bevco Managing Director Harshita Attaluri, aimed to allow online liquor sales under specific conditions to enhance revenue.
Bevco even created a dedicated mobile application for this service, and major delivery platforms like Swiggy reportedly showed interest in collaboration.
Nevertheless, bar owners within the state opposed this concept, fearing adverse effects on their businesses.
The recommendation stipulated that only individuals over the age of 23 could purchase liquor online, with age verification required upon delivery.
Additionally, Bevco's strategy included introducing low-alcohol beverages targeting tourists and permitting the sale of foreign beer within the state.
This isn't the first time Bevco has proposed such an initiative. A similar suggestion was made three years ago, which also faced rejection.
With the government sticking to its current position, the prospect of liquor delivery to homes will remain sidelined for the time being.
They anticipated that home delivery could enhance sales revenue. BEVCO's revenue for 2024-25 was projected to be Rs 19,700 crore, an increase from Rs 19,050 crore in the prior fiscal year.
Liquor sales in Kerala are governed by the Foreign Liquor Rules, 1953, and implementing online sales would necessitate amendments to the Abkari Act along with new regulations, all of which must receive state government approval.
Currently, BEVCO operates 26 warehouses and 283 retail outlets, with 155 featuring self-service or premium counters.
Liquor sales continue to be a vital revenue source for the state, with collections surging from Rs 8,778.29 crore in 2016-17 to Rs 15,170.82 crore in 2023-24.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the delicate balance between revenue generation and public sentiment, especially ahead of elections. The decision to withdraw from the liquor home delivery proposal reflects the government's understanding of its constituents' concerns and the potential backlash. This approach aligns with the broader sentiment of prioritizing community welfare over commercial interests.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Kerala government rejecting the liquor delivery proposal?
The government believes it could lead to controversy ahead of upcoming local body and assembly elections.
What were the proposed age restrictions for liquor purchases?
The proposal recommended that only individuals over 23 years old could purchase liquor online.
What is the current status of liquor sales in Kerala?
Liquor sales are regulated by the Foreign Liquor Rules, 1953, and remain a significant revenue source for the state.
What has been the revenue trend for BEVCO?
BEVCO's revenue has increased from Rs 19,050 crore in the previous fiscal year to a projected Rs 19,700 crore for 2024-25.
Are there any alternatives being considered for boosting liquor sales?
Yes, the proposal included introducing low-alcohol beverages targeted at tourists and selling foreign-made beer.
