NewKerala.com

Key Points

The Kerala government has rejected Bevco's proposal for liquor home delivery, fearing political backlash before elections. The plan included age verification and partnerships with platforms like Swiggy. Bar owners opposed the move, citing threats to their business. This marks the second time Bevco's delivery proposal has been shelved.

Key Points: Kerala Govt Rejects Bevco Liquor Home Delivery Proposal Ahead of Polls

  • Kerala govt wary of liquor delivery amid upcoming elections
  • Bevco proposed online sales with age verification
  • Bar owners opposed fearing business impact
  • Plan included low-alcohol beverages for tourists
2 min read

Kerala govt unlikely to approve liquor home delivery proposal

Pinarayi Vijayan govt shelves Bevco's liquor home delivery plan fearing controversy before elections, despite revenue boost potential.

"The government feels it could lead to a controversy as two crucial elections are on the horizon - Top Sources"

Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 11

The Kerala government has, for all practical purposes, decided against approving the Kerala State Beverages (Marketing & Manufacturing) Corporation Limited’s (BEVCO) proposal to introduce home delivery of liquor.

Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 11 (IANS) The Kerala government has, for all practical purposes, decided against approving the Kerala State Beverages (Marketing & Manufacturing) Corporation Limited’s (BEVCO) proposal to introduce home delivery of liquor. According to top sources, the Pinarayi Vijayan government feels it could lead to a controversy as two crucial elections -- local body and the assembly elections are on the horizon.

The proposal, submitted by Bevco Managing Director Harshita Attaluri, sought permission for online liquor sales under certain conditions, with the aim of boosting revenue.

Bevco had even developed a dedicated mobile application for the service, and major delivery platforms, including Swiggy, had reportedly expressed interest in partnering.

However, bar owners in the state opposed the idea, fearing it could impact their business.

According to the recommendation, only individuals above the age of 23 would be eligible to purchase liquor online, and proof of age would be required at the time of delivery.

Bevco’s plan also included introducing low-alcohol beverages aimed at tourists and allowing the sale of foreign-made beer in the state.

This is not the first time Bevco has floated such a proposal. A similar proposal was put forward three years ago but was rejected.

With the government maintaining its current stand, the move to enable liquor delivery directly to homes will remain off the table for now.

They also hoped that home delivery would boost sales revenue. BEVCO's revenue in 2024-25 was Rs 19,700 crore, up from Rs 19,050 crore the previous fiscal.

Liquor sales in Kerala are regulated by the Foreign Liquor Rules, 1953, and introducing online sales would require amendments to the Abkari Act along with new rules, all of which must be approved by the state government.

BEVCO currently operates 26 warehouses and 283 retail outlets, of which 155 have self-service or premium counters.

Liquor sales remain a major source of revenue for the state, with collections rising from Rs 8,778.29 crore in 2016-17 to Rs 15,170.82 crore in 2023-24.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As an expat living in Kochi, I think this was a missed opportunity. Many countries have responsible home delivery systems that work well. The age verification could have been strict like Aadhaar authentication. Tourists would have benefited greatly from this service.
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Ananya R
Typical political move before elections! Government doesn't want to upset conservative voters. But same government has no problem collecting thousands of crores from liquor sales. Hypocrisy much? 🤨
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Vikram M
Bevco should improve their existing outlets first. The queues are horrible and the shops look dirty. Focus on basic infrastructure before fancy apps and home delivery!
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Kavya N
As a working woman, home delivery would have been safer than going to liquor shops where men stare uncomfortably. The government talks about women's safety but rejects practical solutions. Very disappointing!
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Michael C
The tourism angle makes sense. When I visited Kerala last year, finding good wine was so difficult. If they want to attract more international tourists, they need better alcohol policies. Goa does it right!

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