Gujarat has relaxed its liquor rules in GIFT City, allowing the sale and consumption of alcohol within designated areas of the business district, while keeping the state’s strict prohibition laws unchanged elsewhere.
According to officials, GIFT City has updated its Wine and Dine policy to allow liquor consumption in more spaces, including hotel terraces, lawns, and poolside areas. The move is aimed at making the city more attractive to global businesses, international professionals, and visitors.
Officials said the revised policy is meant to support GIFT City’s ambition of becoming a world-class financial and IT hub, while offering a more comfortable environment for people working and visiting the area on official business.
Easier permits for visitors and events
Under the updated rules, alcohol consumption will be allowed only within approved premises inside GIFT City. The changes also make it easier for domestic and international visitors to get temporary liquor permits when visiting for work.
In addition, the managing director of GIFT City has been given the authority to issue group permits for large conferences, conventions, and business events, simplifying approvals for major gatherings.
GIFT City spans around 880 acres along the Sabarmati River between Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. It is India’s first operational International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) and has been positioned as a key global financial and technology destination.
Prohibition laws remain strictly in force
Despite the relaxed rules within GIFT City, the Gujarat government has clarified that the state’s prohibition laws remain firmly in place.
Under the Gujarat Prohibition (Amended) Act, 2017, the sale, purchase, transport, or possession of liquor anywhere else in the state is a punishable offence, carrying a jail term of up to 10 years, with a minimum sentence of seven years, along with a fine.
Officials stressed that the revised policy applies only within GIFT City and does not weaken Gujarat’s broader prohibition framework. As per the official notification, only non-residents of Gujarat and foreign nationals are allowed to consume liquor, and only within designated areas of GIFT City.
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