AP’s New Liquor Policy from September 1: Focus on Public Health, Not Just Revenue
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced a new liquor policy set to take effect from September 1, 2025, emphasizing that public health must take precedence over revenue generation.
Speaking at a high-level Excise Department meeting held at the state Secretariat, CM Naidu directed officials to reduce the alcohol content in beverages and ensure that the policy does not negatively impact the lives of the poor. “Liquor must not be just a revenue-generating tool,” the CM stressed, adding that people suffered from sub-standard liquor during the previous regime.
The revised policy introduces a bar license lottery system. Currently, there are 840 bars across the state. The license fee structure is as follows:
₹35,000 for towns with populations under 50,000
₹55 lakh for towns with populations under 5 lakh
₹75 lakh for areas with populations over 5 lakh
Each bar applicant can submit up to four applications. The government expects around ₹700 crore in revenue from applications and licensing fees.
In line with the current inclusivity guidelines, 10% of bar licenses will be reserved for Geetha communities.
CM Naidu also revealed progress in curbing illicit distilled (ID) liquor, stating that 12 districts are currently ID-free, with 8 more to join by the end of August and the remaining 6 by September.
Wrapping up, the CM reiterated that the new liquor policy aims to promote a people-first approach, prioritizing public health and social welfare over mere economic gains.
