The Uttar Pradesh Excise Department has approved a proposal to increase grain-based production of country liquor in response to declining sugarcane availability, pressure on molasses supplies and rising demand for alcoholic beverages. As part of the plan, the department is preparing to procure grains in large quantities from Punjab, Haryana and other agriculturally rich states to ensure an uninterrupted supply of raw materials for liquor manufacturing.
Molasses, a by-product of sugar production, has traditionally been the primary raw material for manufacturing country liquor and rum in Uttar Pradesh. However, reduced sugarcane availability has affected molasses supplies, creating concerns over the continuity of production. With liquor consumption continuing to rise, the excise department is exploring grain-based production as an alternative to reduce dependence on molasses and strengthen the state’s liquor supply chain. The issue was discussed at a recent review meeting of the department, where officials indicated that preparations for large-scale grain procurement were already underway.
District Excise Officer Sushil Kumar Mishra said grains are currently used primarily in whisky production, while molasses remains the principal raw material for country liquor and rum. He highlighted the importance of ensuring a reliable supply of raw materials, particularly because country liquor accounts for the largest share of liquor consumption in Uttar Pradesh. The proposed shift towards greater use of grains is expected to help address supply constraints and support production requirements.
Meanwhile, Prayagraj is preparing to introduce its first low-alcohol beverage bar, offering consumers an alternative to conventional high-alcohol spirits. The district bar committee has approved the proposal, and the hotel operator has deposited the required fee. The establishment is coming up at a hotel near Subhash Crossing in the Civil Lines area and is expected to become operational within the next 10 days.
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West Bengal Implements New Liquor Licence Rules, Sets 500-Metre Distance Limit in Municipal AreasAlthough low-alcohol beverage bars are already present in several metropolitan cities, Prayagraj has not previously had such an establishment. Officials indicated that urbanisation and changing lifestyle preferences have contributed to growing interest in lighter alcoholic beverages. The proposed outlet is expected to cater to consumers seeking drinks with lower alcohol content than conventional spirits.
These developments reflect changing priorities in Uttar Pradesh’s liquor sector, with the excise department exploring alternative raw materials to address production challenges while Prayagraj prepares to expand its beverage offerings through a new low-alcohol bar format.
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