Lucknow, May 27, 2026: Uttar Pradesh’s fifth-phase e-lottery process for the allocation of liquor and bhang retail shops has received an overwhelming response, with more than 13,000 applications submitted for 507 outlets ahead of the scheduled draw on May 29, 2026.
The large-scale participation highlights the continued business interest in Uttar Pradesh’s alco-bev retail sector, which remains one of the country’s largest excise markets by revenue and outlet network.
According to officials from the Uttar Pradesh Excise Department, a total of 552 liquor and bhang shops were included in the fifth phase of the allotment process. However, applications were received for only 507 shops, while 45 outlets failed to attract any bids or applications.
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Department officials said the state government expects to generate nearly ₹75 crore through the sale of application forms alone during this phase of the e-lottery process.
The available outlets include:
- 350 country liquor shops
- 95 composite liquor shops
- 52 model shops
- 10 bhang retail shops
Industry observers said the strong response reflects sustained demand for retail liquor licences in Uttar Pradesh despite rising operational costs and increasing competition in several urban markets.
The highest competition has been witnessed in Lucknow and Varanasi, where applicants are aggressively competing for premium retail locations.
In Lucknow, around 4,000 applications were submitted for 109 liquor shops, making the state capital one of the most competitive markets in the current lottery cycle.
Varanasi also witnessed intense competition, with nearly 2,000 applications filed for just 29 shops. Industry stakeholders believe high consumer demand, tourism activity and premium retail potential continue to drive strong interest in these markets.
Officials said the Excise Department will take a separate decision regarding the future allocation process for the 45 shops that did not receive any applications in this phase.
The ongoing e-lottery process comes as Uttar Pradesh continues to focus on strengthening excise revenue collections and expanding retail accessibility in growing urban and semi-urban areas. The state government had earlier announced plans to increase the number of liquor retail outlets to cater to rising population density and demand in developing localities.
Industry analysts say Uttar Pradesh remains one of India’s most closely watched alco-bev markets due to its large consumer base, evolving retail policies and significant contribution to state excise revenues.
The final lottery draw for the fifth phase is scheduled to be conducted on May 29 under the supervision of district authorities and excise officials across the state.
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