Delhi’s liquor buyers may soon get a new and convenient way to purchase alcohol. Under the proposed new excise policy, customers will be able to pre-book their favourite liquor brands from home using a mobile application. However, they will be required to collect the booked alcohol from the store within one hour.
The Delhi government is in the process of drafting a new excise policy. A committee chaired by Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Parvesh Verma has been tasked with preparing the draft of the new liquor policy.
Pre-booking of Favourite Brands
According to news agency PTI, the draft policy includes a provision that allows customers to pre-book their preferred liquor brands in advance. Sources said the draft policy is likely to be made public by January 2026 to invite feedback from citizens.
At present, Delhi has more than 700 liquor shops operated by four government corporations—DSIIDC, DTTDC, DSCSC and DCCWS. The committee is also considering reducing the number of liquor shops in residential areas to avoid overcrowding and clustering at single locations.
How Will App-Based Pre-Booking Work?
A source said several meetings have already been held with stakeholders on the policy. “The plan is to launch an application through which customers can check the availability of brands at nearby liquor stores. They will have the option to pre-book their preferred brand,” the source said.
Will There Be a Booking Fee?
The government is also considering whether customers will be charged a fee for pre-booking. It is proposed that shop owners will hold the pre-booked order for up to one hour. If the customer fails to collect the order within this time, the shop will be free to sell the brand to another buyer.
Complaint and Monitoring System
All liquor stores will be mapped on the app and will be required to regularly update their stock details. This will help the government track demand and identify popular brands. For instance, if many customers search for a particular brand that is frequently unavailable, the government can take steps to ensure its supply.
The app will also feature a grievance redressal section for customers. Additionally, it aims to prevent unfair practices such as brand pushing or forcing customers to buy specific brands.
Earlier, the Delhi government had extended the existing excise policy for three months as the new policy was not yet ready.
