Prayagraj: The Uttar Pradesh Excise Department has approved a proposal to expand grain-based country liquor production amid declining sugarcane availability, constraints on molasses supplies and rising demand for alcoholic beverages. Under the proposed plan, the department is preparing to procure grains in large quantities from Punjab, Haryana and other agriculturally prosperous states to ensure a steady supply of raw materials for liquor manufacturing.
Molasses, a by-product of sugar production, has traditionally been the principal raw material for manufacturing country liquor and rum in UP. However, reduced sugarcane availability has affected molasses supplies, raising concerns over the uninterrupted production of these beverages. With liquor demand continuing to grow, the department is exploring greater use of grains to reduce dependence on molasses and strengthen the state’s liquor supply chain.
The matter was discussed at a recent departmental review meeting, where officials indicated that preparations for large-scale grain procurement were underway.
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Sushil Kumar Mishra, District Excise Officer, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh Excise Department, said the decision to increase grain-based liquor production had been taken in view of the shortage of sugarcane. The move is aimed at reducing dependence on molasses and addressing raw material supply constraints amid rising demand for alcoholic beverages, according to a report published by Hindustan.
Prayagraj Set to Get Its First Low-Alcohol Beverage Bar
In a separate development, Prayagraj is preparing to open its first low-alcohol beverage bar, offering consumers an alternative to conventional high-alcohol spirits. The proposal has received approval from the district bar committee, and the hotel operator has deposited the prescribed fee.
The establishment is being set up at a hotel near Subhash Crossing in the Civil Lines area and is expected to become operational within the next 10 days.
While low-alcohol beverage bars have already been introduced in several metropolitan cities, Prayagraj has not previously had such an establishment. Officials indicated that urbanisation and evolving lifestyle preferences have contributed to growing interest in beverages with lower alcohol content. The proposed outlet is expected to cater to consumers seeking alternatives to conventional spirits.
The developments highlight two emerging trends in Uttar Pradesh’s liquor sector: efforts to diversify raw material sourcing to address production challenges and the introduction of new beverage formats in response to changing consumer preferences. While expanded grain-based production could help ease pressure on molasses supplies, Prayagraj’s proposed low-alcohol bar marks a new addition to the city’s regulated beverage market.
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