Alcohol Home Delivery In These States: Now, Your Favourite Liquor At Your Doorstep?

Platforms like Swiggy, BigBasket, and Zomato may soon begin delivering liquor, starting with low-alcohol drinks such as beer, wine, and liqueurs, according to reports. States like New Delhi, Karnataka, Haryana, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Kerala are exploring pilot projects for this service, as reported by the Economic Times, citing industry executives. Authorities are assessing the pros and cons of this move.

Currently, home delivery of alcohol is allowed only in Odisha and West Bengal.

"This initiative aims to cater to the growing expat population in larger cities, changing consumer profiles who see moderate alcohol-content spirits as recreational, and women and senior citizens who find traditional liquor store experiences unpleasant," one executive stated.

"Online models ensure end-to-end transaction records, age verification, and compliance with limits. Additionally, online tech systems synchronize with regulatory and excise requirements, ensuring adherence to timings, dry days, and zonal delivery restrictions," said Dinker Vashisht, vice-president of corporate affairs at Swiggy.

During the Covid-19 lockdowns, temporary liquor deliveries were allowed in Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Assam with restrictions. According to industry executives, online deliveries have increased sales by 20-30% in West Bengal and Odisha.

Rahul Singh, chief executive of pub chain The Beer Cafe, told Economic Times, "By enabling online home deliveries of liquor, states can enhance consumer convenience, drive economic growth, and align with global trends while ensuring responsible and regulated alcohol distribution."