UP Revolutionizes Liquor Retail: E-Lottery System Replaces Traditional Shop Allocations

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has introduced a groundbreaking change in its excise policy for 2025-26, implementing an e-lottery system for allocating all liquor and cannabis shop licenses across the state. The innovative policy introduces "composite shops" that merge beer and foreign liquor outlets, allowing customers to purchase all types of alcoholic beverages from a single location. Under the new system, applicants are limited to one application and a maximum of two shops statewide. The government aims to generate Rs 55,000 crore in revenue, marking a Rs 4,000 crore increase from the previous year.

Source: The Indian Express