Liquor sales in Delhi surged by 15% this Diwali season compared to the same period last year, according to data from the Delhi Excise Department. The increase reflects strong festive demand, and officials expect sales to grow further with the wedding season approaching in November and December.
As per the department’s figures, liquor worth ₹594 crore was sold through retail outlets in the 15 days leading up to Diwali this year. In the same period last year, the sales stood at ₹516 crore. A senior excise official said, “This shows a 15% increase in the total value of liquor sales this festive season.”
The Excise Department has also encouraged residents to obtain temporary licences to purchase liquor in bulk for functions and weddings. Officials added that sales generally spike again around Christmas and New Year.
Between April and August 2025, the Delhi government collected ₹2,500 crore in excise duty, marking a strong start to the financial year. The department has set a target of ₹7,000 crore in excise revenue (excluding VAT) for the year.
Officials believe the ongoing festive and wedding seasons will help sustain the momentum in liquor sales across the capital.
