These states may permit home delivery of liquor through online platforms like Swiggy, Zomato: Report

These initiatives will start with low-alcohol drinks such as beer, wine, and liqueurs, according to industry executives with knowledge of the developments.

State authorities are currently gathering feedback on the pros and cons of online delivery from e-commerce platforms and spirits manufacturers, the executives said.

"This is to cater to a growing expat population especially in larger cities, changing profiles of consumers who perceive moderate alcohol-content spirits as recreational drinking along with meals, and women and senior citizens who have flagged buying from traditional liquor vends and shop-front experiences as unpleasant," one of the executives was quoted as saying by ET on condition of anonymity.

At present, home delivery of alcohol is allowed in Odisha and West Bengal.

"Online models ensure end-to-end transaction records, age verification and adhere to limits. Further, online tech stacks synchronise with regulatory and excise requirements, ensuring adherence to timings, dry days and zonal delivery guardrails," Dinker Vashisht, vice-president, corporate affairs, at Swiggy was quoted as saying by ET.

Swiggy and Spencer's Retail make home delivery of spirits in West Bengal.

Spokespeople for other delivery platforms did not respond to ET's emailed queries. In the past, political backlash, perception challenges, and pressure from physical retail bodies have hindered the implementation of such proposals.

During the COVID-19 lockdowns, temporary deliveries were allowed in Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Assam with restrictions. However, legitimate alcohol deliveries are currently not permitted in these states, although some local online platforms continue to deliver, especially in Maharashtra.

Legitimate selling models are based on e-commerce and quick-delivery platforms sourcing stocks directly from retail outlets.

According to retail industry executives, online deliveries have led to a 20-30% increase in sales, particularly for premium brands, in West Bengal and Odisha, the ET report said.