The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet, led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, has approved a new excise policy that will take effect on October 1, 2024. One of the key highlights of this policy is that a 180 ml bottle of liquor will be priced at ₹99, making it more affordable while ensuring quality.
The new policy will also shift liquor distribution to a private retail system. Currently, there are 3,736 retail outlets in the state, and under the new system, 10% of these licenses will be set aside for the toddy-tapper community, selected through an online lottery. Additionally, premium liquor stores will be opened at 12 locations outside of Tirupati to cater to higher-end consumers. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and ensure fair distribution of retail licenses, with Naidu emphasizing the importance of providing quality products at competitive prices.
In other developments, the Cabinet has decided to rename Bhogapuram Airport as Alluri Seetharamaraju International Airport. The state’s vision document, originally titled “Vikasitha Andhra 2047,” will now be called the Swarnandhra Vision Document and is set to be launched on November 1. The Cabinet has also approved a proposal to reserve 33% of legislative seats for backward classes to improve representation and inclusivity. Additionally, plans to establish an artificial intelligence (AI) university and a skilling academy have been approved to enhance regional talent and workforce skills.
