Luck to decide fate of 7,251 applicants for 1,343 liquor shops Friday

Manish Raj

Ranchi: Jharkhand is set to begin a new chapter in its liquor sale policy, with retail liquor trade moving into private hands starting September 1 under the newly introduced policy. The long-awaited lottery draw to allocate licenses for 1,343 retail liquor shops across the state is scheduled for Friday.

The application process, which closed on August 20, saw an overwhelming response. A total of 7,251 applications were received for 560 shop groups, covering all 1,343 liquor shops—marking the first time since state formation that 100% of retail liquor shops have drawn applicants.

This surge in participation has already resulted in significant revenue for the state. The government has earned a net revenue of approximately ?38 crore solely from application fees. While retail sales will now be handled by private entities, wholesale distribution will remain with the Jharkhand State Beverages Corporation Limited (JSBCL).

Preparations for the draw have been underway for the past 24 hours, with officials working to ensure smooth execution. The lottery process will begin at 11 a.m. and is expected to continue until 5 p.m. It will be livestreamed on the official portal Jharkhand.com, and arrangements have been made at all district collectorates for applicants to view the draw live.

Once the lottery concludes, successful applicants will be directed by the respective district deputy commissioners to complete the next stages of the licensing process. As per the excise department, shops can begin operations starting September 1, following site selection and completion of formalities in accordance with laid-down norms.

Excise Commissioner and JSBCL Managing Director Sanjay Kumar Mehta expressed satisfaction over the full subscription of available shop slots, calling it a major milestone.

Until August 31, liquor sales across the state will continue under the existing system.