In Rajasthan, the shortage of bottled-in-origin or imported liquor brands has caused frustration among consumers who are unable to find scotch, wine, and vodka brands for more than a month. This includes several renowned premium liquor brands like Black Label, Red Label, Chivas Regal, Glenlivet 18, Ardmore, Jim Beam, and others, which are not available in 6,500 vends located in various parts of the state.
According to sources, the excise department’s failure to revise the prices of imported brands is the reason for the shortage, resulting in liquor companies holding back fresh stocks.
An excise officer said, “In the new financial year, the companies sent proposals for rates revisions. After deliberations with the companies, the prices are being decided and stock will be released within two days.”
As a result of the shortage, a significant number of customers are compelled to travel to nearby cities like Gurugram, New Delhi, and Noida to purchase or refill their stock.
Nilesh Mewara, President of Rajasthan Liquor Welfare Society, said, “There are no premium brands available for the past 20 days and it is not just a revenue loss for traders but also for the government.”
The traders are currently surviving on the remaining quota from the previous year. Meanwhile, the new traders who have recently bought vends are still relying on the supply from the Rajasthan State Beverages Corporation Ltd depots, which has resulted in allegations that their credibility has been affected.
“Almost all vends are short of premium liquor. The demand has increased manifold but we are running out of stock,” said Kuldeep Ratnu who works at a wine store.
