Ranchi, June 15, 2026: Pending supplier payments exceeding ₹200 crore in Jharkhand’s alcoholic beverage sector have emerged as a key concern for industry stakeholders, with leading alcobev associations calling for the early release of dues and a structured reconciliation process between suppliers and the Jharkhand State Beverages Corporation Limited (JSBCL).
The issue has been jointly highlighted by the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC), the International Spirits and Wines Association of India (ISWAI), and the Brewers Association of India (BAI). In a joint representation, the associations stated that a substantial portion of payments relating to supplies made under the state’s previous Route-to-Market (RTM) framework remains pending despite the introduction of a revised distribution system last year.
According to the industry bodies, the outstanding dues pertain to supplies made up to August 31, 2025, under the earlier RTM model. Jharkhand subsequently transitioned to a revised RTM framework from September 1, 2025. While partial payments were reportedly released by JSBCL in February 2026, the associations said a significant amount of dues remains unsettled.
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The associations have urged the state government to expedite the settlement of pending payments and complete a time-bound reconciliation of accounts between JSBCL and suppliers. They noted that closure of legacy transactions linked to the previous RTM structure remains an important requirement for resolving outstanding balances.
Industry representatives stated that prolonged delays in payments can impact cash flow management, working capital cycles, inventory planning and overall business operations. They also pointed out that suppliers have continued servicing the market and maintaining product availability while awaiting settlement of outstanding amounts.
The associations further observed that suppliers have not yet participated in a formal reconciliation exercise relating to accounts and inventory under the earlier RTM regime. They suggested that a structured reconciliation mechanism involving all stakeholders would help facilitate faster resolution of pending issues and improve operational clarity.
Highlighting the economic significance of the sector, the associations noted that the alcoholic beverage industry contributed approximately ₹4,013 crore in excise revenue to Jharkhand during the 2025-26 financial year, making it an important source of state revenue. They added that timely resolution of payment-related matters would support business continuity and help maintain investor confidence in the sector.
CIABC, ISWAI and BAI collectively represent a substantial share of India’s liquor, beer and wine industry. The associations have expressed hope that the pending dues issue will be resolved at the earliest through coordinated efforts between industry stakeholders and the concerned authorities.
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