In a major policy shift, the Jharkhand government has approved a plan to allow private companies and individuals to run retail liquor shops across the state.
Until now, the sale of liquor in Jharkhand was managed entirely by the state-run Jharkhand State Beverages Corporation Limited (JSBCL), which handled both wholesale and retail sales. This system, in place since 2019, is now being replaced due to poor revenue performance and manpower shortages.
At a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the government cleared the new Jharkhand Excise (Settlement and Operation of Shops for Retail Sale of Liquor) Rules, 2025. Under this new policy:
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Private businesses will now be allowed to run retail liquor shops.
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Wholesale supply will still be managed by JSBCL.
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Initially, 1,443 shops across the state will be opened up for private management.
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Any one party can operate up to 12 shops per district and 36 shops across the entire state.
Speaking to the media, Excise Secretary Manoj Kumar said the decision was made due to staffing issues and the inefficiency of the previous model. He also mentioned that prices for around 300 out of 500 liquor brands may see a slight increase.
The government expects to roll out this new model within a month.
However, the move has not gone without criticism. BJP spokesperson Ajay Sahu accused the state government of setting the stage for “another liquor scam” with this policy change.
