In Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, the excise department has made changes to the Heritage Liquor Policy to boost sales and improve visibility. These changes have been approved by the Cabinet committee, and an official notification is expected soon, according to a senior department official.
The new amendments will require certain types of bars, like those in hotels, to keep at least two cases of heritage liquor in stock. Additionally, these bars must include heritage liquor on their menus so customers are aware of it and can try it. Bars that don’t meet this stock requirement will face penalties. Previously, there were no specific rules regarding personal possession of heritage liquor, but the updated policy addresses this.
The government aims to increase demand for heritage liquor by ensuring its availability in bars. There are around 400 bars in the state that significantly contribute to liquor consumption. To support this, the government is looking to increase production units for heritage liquor, primarily managed by Self Help Groups.
Furthermore, the government has hired an agency for branding heritage liquor and is in the process of bringing on another agency to help with its promotion and export. The goal is to raise awareness and encourage people to try heritage liquor in Madhya Pradesh.
