Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC) has strongly criticised the Uttarakhand government’s excise policy, alleging that it discriminates against Indian liquor manufacturers while favouring imported brands.
In a statement, the industry body said the policy allows premium retail outlets in malls and departmental stores to sell only imported liquor. According to CIABC, this move goes against the spirit of Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, and effectively gives importers a monopoly in high-end retail spaces.
CIABC Director General Anant S Iyer said the organisation has made several representations to the state government, urging it to adopt a more balanced approach. He called it unfair to deny Indian wines and spirits access to malls and departmental stores simply because they are not produced within Uttarakhand.
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He also pointed out practical challenges, noting that many Indian alcoholic beverages cannot be manufactured in the state due to logistical and raw material constraints. For example, wine production depends heavily on grapes sourced from states like Maharashtra and Karnataka.
Iyer added that many Indian brands enjoy global recognition and questioned why residents and tourists in Uttarakhand should be denied access to these products. He said such restrictions go against the broader push to promote domestic goods.
The CIABC also highlighted that institutions like the armed forces have already reduced the sale of imported liquor in their canteens to encourage Indian-made products. In comparison, the current Uttarakhand policy appears to contradict the national goal of promoting self-reliance.
The industry body has urged the state government to adopt a more inclusive policy that supports Indian-made alcoholic beverages, including IMFL and wines.
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