Just Rs 99 for full bottle, discounts for premium brands too; new liquor policy from next week

HYDERABAD: A bottle of liquor will cost just Rs 99. From the 12th of this month, Andhra Pradesh will offer premium liquor at the lowest price. It's doubtful whether good-quality liquor is available anywhere else in India at this price. The price reduction is part of the new liquor policy being implemented in the state. The government aims to generate additional revenue through its new liquor policy, anticipating an increase of Rs 5,500 crores in state revenue following its implementation.

Officials say that the decision to sell quality liquor at low prices was taken to prevent low-income individuals from consuming spurious or counterfeit liquor. Officials also say that more brands, including premium items, will be available at lower prices for low-income earners. In addition, to boost private retail trade, 3,736 retail liquor shops will be privatized across the state. This move will generate millions in revenue through license fees alone. The new liquor policy has a two-year tenure.

However, the new liquor policy has sparked widespread criticism, with many condemning it as flawed. Critics argue that it will only lead to family breakups and make the state's poor vulnerable to serious health issues. Proponents of the new liquor policy argue that the government's decision to reduce the price of premium liquor is aimed at preventing people from buying and consuming spurious or counterfeit liquor, which can be life-threatening.