Hyderabad | October 25, 2025
The Telangana Excise Department has received an overwhelming 95,137 applications for just 2,620 retail liquor shops for the 2025–27 licence period — highlighting the intense competition among applicants across the state.
Shamshabad, Saroornagar Lead in Applications
Shamshabad topped the list with 8,536 applications for 111 shops, while Saroornagar came next with 7,845 applications for 138 shops. Medchal also saw strong interest, recording 5,548 applications for 118 outlets.
Across the state, there were about 36 applicants for every shop, but in major urban areas like Hyderabad and Secunderabad, competition shot up dramatically — reaching nearly 500 applicants per shop. Hyderabad city alone accounted for 3,201 applications this year.
Lottery Draw on October 27
The excise department will hold a draw of lots on October 27 at 11 a.m. to allot licences. The draw will be conducted at the district level under the supervision of excise superintendents.
Sharp Competition Compared to Last Term
During the previous licence period (2023–25), the state had received 1.32 lakh applications, averaging 50 applicants per shop. Shamshabad had then set a record with over 10,000 applications.
Strong Participation Across Districts
This time, several districts have also shown keen interest:
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Secunderabad: 3,022 applications
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Khammam: 4,430
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Sangareddy: 4,432
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Nalgonda: 4,906
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Malkajgiri: 5,168
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Warangal Urban: 3,175
Smaller districts such as Adilabad (771), Gadwal (774), and Wanaparthy (757) too witnessed notable participation.
Entrepreneurial Interest on the Rise
Officials say the high number of applications reflects the strong business potential and vibrant retail liquor market in Telangana, especially in urban and semi-urban areas, where entrepreneurs are eager to secure limited shop licences.
