Today marks a new era for alcohol lovers in Andhra Pradesh as private liquor shops open their doors across the state. The government has handed out 3,396 licenses to private retailers, saying goodbye to the era of government-run liquor stores.
Drinkers in Andhra Pradesh have reason to celebrate. As the era of “J brands” ended, popular national and international brands will line up in the shelves. Four national brands are set to offer quarter bottles for just ₹99.
Many liquor shop owners are still struggling to find suitable locations, as strict rules require shops to be at least 100 meters away from schools, colleges, places of worship, and hospitals. High rents in some areas are also causing headaches for these entrepreneurs.
As for the old government shops, they closed their doors for good yesterday. Any leftover stock is being moved to central depots, making way for the new private establishments.
Within a week, a wide variety of liquor options from across India will be available.
-Sanyogita
