The Delhi government is likely to soon open liquor vends at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport serving domestic flyers after nearly two years of obstruction due to scrapping of its excise policy 2021-22, official sources said on Tuesday (June 25).
The excise policy for 2021-22 was scrapped following a recommendation by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena for a CBI probe into alleged irregularities in its formulation and implementation back in 2022.
This move led to the transfer of retail liquor sales from private licensees to four agencies of the Delhi government, including the Delhi Consumers’ Cooperative Wholesale Store Limited (DCCWS).
DCCWS gears up to open liquor shop at T3
Sources familiar with the matter indicated that DCCWS is gearing up to open a liquor shop at the arrival section of Terminal 3 (T3) by July. Additionally, plans are underway to establish another store at the departure area of Terminal 1 (T1) in the near future.
High rental costs for liquor vends
Previous attempts by government agencies to reintroduce liquor vends at the domestic terminals of IGI Airport were reportedly hindered by high rental costs. Prior to the scrapping of the 2021-22 excise policy, the domestic terminals hosted six premium liquor stores operated by private players.
The upcoming reintroduction of liquor vends at IGI Airport is expected to cater specifically to domestic travelers, marking a significant development following the policy adjustments made by the Delhi government.
This move aligns with efforts to streamline and regulate liquor retail in the city under the revised policy framework, ensuring compliance and effective service delivery to consumers.