Public discussions around alcohol consumption often reflect deeper social and economic trends. These conversations go beyond lifestyle choices and point towards governance, regulation, and regional behaviour.
Across India, drinking habits differ widely. Culture, state policies, urbanisation, and income levels all play a role in shaping consumption patterns.
Data on liquor sales therefore tells a broader story. It highlights how policy decisions and accessibility influence public behaviour rather than simply ranking states by consumption.
A comparison of per capita IMFL consumption for FY 2024–25 brings these contrasts into focus. Karnataka records one of the highest figures, with 6.88 crore cases sold for a population of about 6.8 crore. This translates to roughly 1.01 cases per person.
Telangana follows closely at 0.95 cases per person. Tamil Nadu stands at 0.83, while Andhra Pradesh and Kerala remain above the national average at 0.72 and 0.64 respectively.
In contrast, larger states such as Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh show much lower per capita figures. Their consumption levels stand at 0.22 and 0.10 cases per person.
The national average rests at 0.28 cases per person. This clearly shows that higher consumption is concentrated in specific regions rather than spread evenly across the country.
At the top of the list is Chandigarh, which records the highest overall figure at 1.39 cases per person.
These figures need careful interpretation. Higher sales can be influenced by taxation policies, tourism, cross-border purchases, and regulated retail systems.
Ultimately, the data highlights how government policy, accessibility, and social attitudes together shape alcohol consumption patterns across India.
Highest liquor-consuming states in India. pic.twitter.com/LRMvhtFu7D
— Indian Tech & Infra (@IndianTechGuide) February 26, 2026
