New Delhi: Starting next year, Delhiites may experience a completely revamped and modernised way of purchasing liquor. The draft of the new excise policy proposes opening large, premium-format liquor stores at malls and metro stations — all to be operated exclusively by government agencies, ending the role of private vendors in the capital.

Government’s New Strategy: Modern, Clean, and Regulated Retail

According to officials, the aim of the new policy is to bring order and transparency to liquor sales, curb irregularities, and provide customers with a better and more controlled retail environment.

A committee constituted by the government has submitted its recommendations to the Chief Minister. The draft clearly states that all 794 outlets in Delhi will be run solely by government corporations, eliminating private participation entirely.

Four agencies — DTTDC, DSIIDC, DSCSC and DCCWS — will jointly operate the outlets.

Why the Focus on Premium Stores?

The government says the emphasis on premium and modern stores is to ensure:

Higher product quality

Better security

Improved customer experience

International-standard shop design and display

To achieve this, the new policy prioritises premium-format retail spaces, especially in high-footfall locations like malls and metro stations.

Legal Drinking Age to Remain Unchanged

The new policy retains the existing legal drinking age of 25 years. No revisions have been proposed in this regard.

Why Prices May Increase

The committee report notes that developing modern and premium outlets will require higher investment.
Costs are expected to rise due to:

Additional staff

Higher rentals in malls and prime markets

Enhanced security

Operational expenses

This may lead to a marginal increase in retail liquor prices.

Sources suggest that several proposed prime outlets — particularly in major malls — will require special budget allocations.

What Will Change Under the New Policy?

No private liquor vendors; only government-run shops

Modern premium stores at malls, metro stations and select markets

Greater transparency and tighter regulatory control

Cleaner, more organised shopping experience

Slight increase in prices likely

A final decision on the new excise policy is expected soon. Delhi’s liquor retail system is set for one of its biggest overhauls in years.