Validity and Renewal of License

A Liquor License is initially valid for one year from the issuance date. To sustain its validity beyond this period, annual renewal is necessary.

Renewal entails submitting the designated application form found on the State Excise Department's website, along with the applicable renewal fee.

The State Excise Department determines the renewal fee, which varies according to the license type or class. Applicants with commendable conduct and goodwill may qualify for a reduction in the renewal fee.

Revocation of the Liquor License

A Liquor License may face revocation if the applicant engages in any of the following actions:

• Dispensing Liquor on Designated Dry Days
• Serving Alcoholic Beverages to Minors
• Contravening the regulations and statutes established by the state excise department

Laws that Regulate Liquor Consumption in India

Liquor laws in India encompass a range of aspects, with key points including:

• Article 47 of the Indian Constitution: Directed at public health enhancement, this article mandates state governments to prohibit intoxicating substances detrimental to well-being. The article emphasizes striving for the prohibition of consuming such substances except for medicinal purposes.
• Schedule VII of the Indian Constitution: Alcohol is included in the state list according to this schedule. Consequently, laws governing alcohol sales and consumption differ from one state to another.
• Variation in State Laws: Due to the constitutional distribution of power, each state enforces its own regulations on the sale and consumption of liquor, leading to varying laws across states.
• Dry States in India: India comprises five dry states: Bihar, Gujarat, Nagaland, Manipur, and the union territory Lakshadweep. A dry state strictly prohibits the purchase, sale, and consumption of alcohol.
• Eligibility for Liquor License: Individuals aged twenty-one and above are eligible to obtain a Liquor License, which is a legal permit for engaging in alcohol-related activities.
• Age Restrictions for Alcohol Consumption: Individuals below the age of twenty-five are prohibited from consuming both alcohol and alcoholic beverages as per Indian regulations.