• Source:JND
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New Delhi, Karnataka, Haryana, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Goa and Kerala are exploring pilot projects that would soon allow platforms like Swiggy, BigBasket and Zomato to home deliver liquor starting with low-alcohol drinks such as beer, wine and liqueurs, it was reported. Authorities are accessing the pros and cons of the move, industry executives said as per an Economics Times report. At present, home delivery of alcohol is allowed in Odisha and West Bengal.

"This is to cater to a growing expat population especially in larger cities, changing profiles of consumers who perceive moderate alcohol-content spirits as recreational drinking along with meals, and women and senior citizens who have flagged buying from traditional liquor vends and shop-front experiences as unpleasant," one of the executives said as per the report.

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"Online models ensure end-to-end transaction records, age verification and adhere to limits. Further, online tech stacks synchronise with regulatory and excise requirements, ensuring adherence to timings, dry days and zonal delivery guardrails," Vice-president, corporate affairs at Swiggy, Dinker Vashisht said.

Liquor deliveries were allowed temporarily during Covid-19 lockdowns in Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Assam but with certain restrictions. As per the report, retail industry executives said that online deliveries have led to 20-30 per cent increase in sales in West Bengal and Odisha.

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“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,” Chief executive of pub chain ‘The Beer Cafe’, Rahul Singh said, as quoted by Economic Times.