Saturday, December 20, 2025
Home Blog Page 142

Bajaj Consumer Care Acquires Banjara’s for ₹120 Crore in Two-Phase Deal, Targets Dominance in India’s ₹50,000 Crore Natural Personal Care Market

0
Image of banjara
Bajaj Consumer Care Acquires Banjara’s for ₹120 Crore in Two-Phase Deal, Targets Dominance in India’s ₹50,000 Crore Natural Personal Care Market

Bajaj Consumer Care Limited (BCCL) has made a bold move to strengthen its foothold in India’s natural personal care market by acquiring Vishal Personal Care Pvt. Ltd., the company behind Banjara’s, a well-known skincare brand. This acquisition is a clear indication of BCCL’s intent to expand its presence in the Ayurvedic and herbal segment, particularly in South India, where Banjara’s has built a strong reputation over the years.

The deal, which was approved by BCCL’s board on February 14, 2025, will see the company take full control of Vishal Personal Care in two phases. Initially, BCCL will acquire a 49% stake, followed by the remaining 51%, with the total transaction valued at ₹120 crore and an enterprise value of ₹108.3 crore.

Banjara’s, founded in 1991 in Hyderabad, has become a household name in South India, thanks to its range of natural and herbal products. The brand offers everything from herbal face packs and aloe vera gels to hair care powders and shampoos, all formulated with a focus on traditional Indian beauty practices. With a presence in over 70,000 retail outlets—including cosmetic stores, supermarkets, and pharmacies—Banjara’s has carved out a niche in the competitive personal care market.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

By bringing Banjara’s into its portfolio, BCCL is not just expanding its product range but also tapping into a well-established distribution network that dominates the South Indian market. The company also has ambitious plans to introduce Banjara’s products to Hindi-speaking regions, which would significantly increase the brand’s reach and consumer base.

Financially, Banjara’s has demonstrated steady growth, with a four-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14% and annual revenues exceeding ₹50 crore. The company has remained debt-free and maintains strong EBITDA margins, making it a valuable addition to BCCL’s portfolio.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

Beyond India, BCCL also sees potential for Banjara’s in modern trade and international markets, where the demand for herbal and Ayurvedic personal care products is on the rise. Leveraging its existing infrastructure, BCCL aims to scale Banjara’s footprint beyond domestic markets.

Commenting on the acquisition, Jaideep Nandi, Managing Director of Bajaj Consumer Care, stated, “This acquisition is a strategic move to deepen our presence in South India while reinforcing our position in the natural personal care space. Banjara’s aligns perfectly with our vision of offering high-quality, herbal-based products that cater to the evolving needs of Indian consumers.”

With this acquisition, BCCL is positioning itself for significant growth in the personal care industry, blending its expertise with Banjara’s legacy of natural and Ayurvedic beauty solutions.

Advertisement

Uber vs. Rapido: The ₹10,000 Crore Battle Over India’s Auto-Rickshaw Market Just Got Hotter as Zero-Commission Model Shakes Up the Industry

0
Image of uber
Uber vs. Rapido: The ₹10,000 Crore Battle Over India’s Auto-Rickshaw Market Just Got Hotter as Zero-Commission Model Shakes Up the Industry

The fight for dominance in India’s booming ₹10,000 crore auto-rickshaw market has reached a new level, with Uber launching a zero-commission, subscription-based model for drivers—just over a year after Rapido took the same route. This shift signals a major disruption in the ride-hailing industry, forcing companies to rethink their business models amid increasing driver dissatisfaction and regulatory scrutiny.

Uber’s move comes at a time when driver strikes, social media outrage over fare manipulation, and regulatory crackdowns on pricing policies have put pressure on ride-hailing giants. With over 2 million auto-rickshaw drivers in India relying on platforms like Uber, Ola, and Rapido for their livelihood, the competition is heating up.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

Rapido, which introduced its flat-fee subscription model in early 2023, has already lured thousands of drivers away from traditional commission-based platforms. Now, Uber is fighting back, eliminating its cut from fares and leaving pricing negotiations directly between drivers and riders.

But will this strategy work? Experts believe the move could help Uber retain its driver base, but it also raises questions about fare inconsistencies, ride cancellations, and service reliability. Meanwhile, Ola, the third big player in the sector, has yet to respond, but pressure is mounting for it to revise its commission-heavy model.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

With Uber’s zero-commission experiment shaking up the market and Rapido aggressively expanding across metros and Tier-2 cities, the battle for India’s auto-rickshaw dominance is far from over. Who will come out on top? Only time will tell.

Advertisement

Nikhil Kamath’s WTFund Backs 9 Young Startups—22 Founders Under 25 Are Changing the Game

0
Image of WTFunds
Nikhil Kamath’s WTFund Backs 9 Young Startups—22 Founders Under 25 Are Changing the Game

WTFund is back with its second cohort, doubling down on its mission to back young entrepreneurs under 25. Spearheaded by Zerodha co-founder and investor Nikhil Kamath, the initiative has handpicked nine promising startups led by 22 ambitious founders. Each startup gets up to ₹20 lakh in grant funding, along with mentorship and strategic guidance to help them scale.

The fund isn’t just about money—it’s about fostering a bold, risk-taking mindset. “Anyone can build at any age, but there’s something about young founders—their energy, their fearlessness, their ability to take leaps before the world tells them to slow down,” says Kamath. “This cohort is filled with founders who aren’t just talking about change; they’re creating it.”

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

This year’s selection process was intense, with applications pouring in from over 50 cities, spanning Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 regions. The final list of startups represents a mix of Tech/SaaS, D2C, EdTech, FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, and CleanTech—each tackling critical local and global challenges. Notably, six of them are leveraging AI in a big way.

Meet the Startups from WTFund Cohort 2:

  • Nasadya (H2ive) – Chaitanya Gulati, Subhechchha Paul, and Suhani Mohan are building solid-state hydrogen storage solutions, making industrial energy safer and more efficient.
  • InnerGize – Shalmali Kadu, Sidharth Bhargava, and Mitansh are creating a wearable device that helps manage chronic stress and anxiety using non-invasive tech.
  • Armatrix – Founded by Vishrant Dave, Prateesh Awasthi, and Ayush Ranjan, this robotics company is designing flexible robotic arms to automate hazardous industrial tasks.
  • Drnk – Raj Thakkar and Aryan Gandhi’s specialty beverage brand is shaking up the drinks industry with affordable, community-driven experiences.
  • Neoperk – Satyendra Gupta’s AgriTech startup uses AI-powered soil testing to help farmers improve productivity and sustainability.
  • ReferRush – Vikram Pai and Rohan Verma are behind this AI-driven platform that helps eCommerce brands supercharge their referral programs.
  • Modus AI – Sunit Gautam and Somesh Lund are tackling financial fraud with an AI-powered detection system for banks and financial institutions.
  • Bytes – Aayush Kumar and Prakhar are making two-wheelers smarter and safer with an AI-driven Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).
  • Ai.gnosis – Raksheet Jain and Divyansh Mangal’s AI tool is designed to detect early signs of autism, helping with early intervention.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

With this powerhouse lineup, WTFund’s second cohort is set to make waves across industries, proving that young founders have what it takes to shake up the status quo.

Advertisement

Jewelbox’s Strategic Expansion: 15% of Orders From Bengaluru Pushes Brand to Open New Store in Jayanagar

0
Image of jewelbox
Jewelbox’s Strategic Expansion: 15% of Orders From Bengaluru Pushes Brand to Open New Store in Jayanagar

Jewelbox, a prominent lab-grown diamond brand, has made its first move into the bustling Bengaluru market with the opening of a new store in Jayanagar. This marks an exciting expansion for the brand in South India, as the city has become a major contributor to Jewelbox’s online sales, accounting for 15% of its total orders.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

The decision to open a physical store in Bengaluru is driven by the strong demand the brand has seen from local customers. “Bengaluru has always been a crucial market for us, especially given the tremendous response from our online shoppers here,” said Vidita Kochar Jain, Co-Founder of Jewelbox. “Now, with our Jayanagar store, we’re offering our customers the chance to interact with our jewelry firsthand, enhancing their shopping experience.”

The new store caters primarily to individuals aged 25 to 50 and will feature personalized consultations, exclusive designs, and a firm focus on ethical craftsmanship, offering a truly curated shopping journey.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

Launched in May 2022 by siblings Vidita Kochar Jain and Nipun Kochar, Jewelbox is a Kolkata-based brand that blends online and offline retail. In just a short period, Jewelbox has rapidly expanded, establishing a presence in cities like Delhi, Chennai, Gurgaon, Kolkata, and Guwahati. By the end of this year, the company plans to open 20 additional stores, further cementing its position in the lab-grown diamond market.

Advertisement

Fossil’s Big Leap in Chandigarh: 30th Store Launched at Elante Mall with Premium Accessories

0
Image of fossil
Fossil’s Big Leap in Chandigarh: 30th Store Launched at Elante Mall with Premium Accessories

Fossil has expanded its retail footprint in India with the launch of its first franchise store in Chandigarh, located at Elante Mall. This marks the brand’s 30th store in the country, reinforcing its commitment to growing its presence in key fashion-forward cities.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

“Chandigarh has a distinct style and appreciation for premium accessories, making it an exciting market for us. Our goal is to provide a shopping experience that not only showcases our latest collections but also reflects Fossil’s design philosophy and craftsmanship. Elante Mall is the perfect setting for this, and we can’t wait to welcome customers to explore our watches, leather goods, and accessories,” said Johnson Verghese, Managing Director of Fossil India.

The move is part of Fossil’s broader retail expansion strategy, aimed at strengthening its direct engagement with consumers. By setting up shop in Chandigarh, the brand is tapping into a growing demand for high-quality, design-driven lifestyle products.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

Globally, Fossil is known for its heritage of craftsmanship and innovation, blending classic design with modern functionality. With a focus on timepieces, leather goods, and fashion accessories, the brand continues to evolve while staying true to its ethos of timeless style and quality.

Advertisement

The ₹5.2 Trillion Opportunity: Nikhil Kamath Discusses How India’s Appetite for Healthy Eating Will Shape the Future of the Food Market

0
Image of nikhil kamath
The ₹5.2 Trillion Opportunity: Nikhil Kamath Discusses How India’s Appetite for Healthy Eating Will Shape the Future of the Food Market

Nikhil Kamath’s insightful social media post on Instagram has generated a significant conversation around the evolving food landscape in India, particularly highlighting the growing demand for healthier food options. His observations are in line with the latest data from Swiggy and Bain & Company, which reveal that the Indian food service market is projected to reach ₹5.2 trillion by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10-12%. Additionally, the rise of online food delivery, especially in Tier 2 and 3 cities, shows how quickly dining habits are shifting in favor of convenience.

A key theme in Kamath’s post was the “healthy wave” sweeping through India. He observed that, as more Indians embrace fitness-focused lifestyles, there is a noticeable increase in demand for nutritious, low-calorie food that doesn’t compromise on flavor. This trend is part of a larger global movement where consumers are more aware than ever of the connection between diet and long-term health. In India, this shift has been significantly fueled by rising disposable incomes, greater access to wellness information, and a growing preference for convenient, healthier food options.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

According to recent reports, the market for healthy snacks in India is expected to grow by 15% annually, with products like gluten-free, organic, and low-sugar snacks becoming increasingly popular. This surge in demand presents a significant opportunity for both established food chains and new entrants into the market. Kamath suggests that entrepreneurs can seize this opportunity by focusing on the “healthy snacking and diet food service” segment, which is projected to reach ₹25,000 crore by 2025.

For food businesses, this means more than just offering healthy items. They need to strike a balance between health-conscious ingredients and affordability, which remains a key concern for most Indian consumers. Transparency in nutritional information and the ability to cater to various dietary needs such as vegan, gluten-free, and keto diets will become essential. Additionally, the convenience factor of these meals—especially for consumers in fast-paced urban environments—is driving the demand for healthier ready-to-eat and meal delivery services.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

Restaurants and food businesses must innovate by creating dedicated healthy menus, partnering with nutritionists, and using innovative cooking techniques to retain nutrients while maintaining taste. In addition to health-conscious dining, Kamath points out the potential of fortified foods and functional snacks that cater to busy professionals seeking both nutrition and convenience in one package.

The future of India’s food industry is evolving rapidly, and as consumer preferences shift towards healthier eating, businesses that understand these dynamics and invest in healthier alternatives will be well-positioned for success. Kamath’s observations underscore the need for food companies to adapt and innovate to meet the growing demand for healthier, convenient food solutions, paving the way for a healthier India.

Advertisement

Get-A-Way Desserts, Under Jash Shah’s Leadership, Sets Sights on a ₹60 Crore Net Run Rate: Expanding Across Emerging Markets As a Key Priority

0
Image of Get-A-Way Desserts
Get-A-Way’s Sugar-Free Revolution: Jash Shah’s Plan to Dominate India’s Dessert Market

Jash Shah’s story is one of calculated risks, unexpected turns, and an unshakable belief in a simple idea: dessert should be both delicious and guilt-free. The founder of Get-A-Way Desserts, Jash started his career in corporate roles, gaining experience in FMCG, regulatory tech, and business development before diving headfirst into entrepreneurship. His journey from a structured corporate world to building an innovative ice cream brand is anything but conventional.

The Leap from Corporate to Ice Cream

Jash’s career began with an internship at Future Group, which led to a full-time role managing brands across multiple categories, from personal care to modern trade retail. His curiosity about FMCG and consumer behavior eventually pulled him toward the startup ecosystem, where he worked at IDfy, a regulatory tech firm, heading business development for a completely new vertical.

But alongside his corporate career, something sweet was brewing. In 2021, Get-A-Way Desserts—co-founded by Jash, his mother, and his sister—got its big break with an appearance on Shark Tank India, securing funding on the show. That moment was the tipping point. Jash left his corporate job to focus entirely on his brand, determined to redefine how people perceive and consume desserts.

Revolutionizing the Ice Cream Industry

The core mission of Get-A-Way is to make desserts that are both indulgent and healthy. Traditionally, ice cream is associated with sugar, calories, and guilt. Jash and his team decided to challenge that perception by crafting zero-sugar, high-protein ice creams that don’t compromise on taste.

“Health and taste don’t have to be mutually exclusive,” Jash explains. “We started with ice creams, and now we’re expanding into cheesecakes and other guilt-free indulgences. The idea is simple: can we make something traditionally unhealthy better for you while keeping it delicious?”

Of course, entering the ice cream space isn’t easy. Consumer preferences differ wildly across India—what works in Mumbai might not sell in Delhi or Bangalore. Early on, Get-A-Way experimented with unconventional flavors like peanut butter ice cream & mac n cheese Ice Cream , only to realize that while niche flavors generate buzz, the real winners are classics like Chocolate Brownie Fudge and Blueberry Cheesecake.

Navigating the Challenges of a “Healthy” Brand

While the market for protein-rich, no-added-sugar desserts is growing, it’s still a niche segment. Many investors have questioned whether mainstream India is ready to embrace it. Jash, however, is confident that the health-conscious movement is not just a passing trend.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

“The Keto wave came and went, veganism had its moment, but the demand for low-sugar, high-protein foods is here to stay,” he says. “Consumers are becoming more aware of what they eat, and brands like ours are helping bridge that education gap.”

One of Get-A-Way’s strategies for driving awareness is community building. They run an annual 30-day no-added-sugar, high-protein challenge, where participants—including employees, families, and customers—commit to a healthier diet. The initiative has grown into a WhatsApp community of over 340 people, who share their experiences, tips, and recipes.

What’s Next for Get-A-Way?

With a rapidly expanding product line and a growing consumer base, Get-A-Way is on track to become a major player in the alternative dessert space. The focus remains on scaling without losing sight of quality.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

“We don’t want to be just another ‘healthy’ brand,” Jash emphasizes. “We want to be the most loved guilt-free indulgence brand in India.”

From a Shark Tank deal to disrupting a deeply traditional category, Jash Shah’s journey proves that with the right mix of insight, persistence, and a little bit of sugar-free magic, even the toughest industries can be sweetened.

Advertisement

Beyoung’s Rise: How Shivani Soni is Taking on Big Fashion with Affordable, Trendy Wear

0
Image of beyoung
Beyoung’s Rise: How Shivani Soni is Taking on Big Fashion with Affordable, Trendy Wear

In a recent conversation, Shivani Soni, co-founder of Beyoung, shared the inspiring journey behind building a fashion brand that caters to the underserved market of Tier 2, 3, and 4 cities in India. She and her co-founders identified a significant gap in the fashion industry back in 2018—people from smaller cities struggled to access affordable, high-quality fashion without compromising on style.

Shivani, a fashion designer by profession, along with her co-founder Shivam, who came from a business background, decided to bridge this gap. Coming from a business family, the decision to start Beyoung was rooted in their understanding of market needs. At the time, most fashion brands were targeting Tier 1 cities and premium customers, leaving a massive section of the population without good fashion choices at affordable prices.

Building for the Mass Market

Shivani emphasized that Beyoung was created with a vision to make global fashion accessible to everyone, especially those managing tight budgets while striving to look good in their daily lives. Whether someone is paying off loans or managing monthly expenses, fashion should not feel like a luxury.

The initial days were challenging. The team assumed that launching the brand would immediately result in a flood of orders. However, they quickly realized they needed a strategy that resonated with their target audience. That’s when they introduced customizable combo packs, allowing customers to pick multiple sizes and colors in a single purchase—a feature that was rare in the market. This gave customers the flexibility to buy in a way that suited their needs, and it became a game-changer for Beyoung.

Later, they introduced “Shop the Look”, where customers could mix and match upper and bottom wear, a concept inspired by global fashion trends but tailored for the Indian audience. This move addressed a major issue—most brands sold co-ord sets with fixed sizes, but Beyoung gave buyers the freedom to choose different sizes for different pieces. The response was overwhelming.

Continue Exploring: NONSTOP launches first flagship store in Mumbai, offering mobility and wellness solutions

Scaling from a Small Startup to a Leading Brand

From earning just ₹35 lakh in 2018, the company is now aiming for an ARR of ₹150–200 crore in FY 2024–25. With over 7 million users and a 40% repeat customer rate, the brand has solidified its position as a trusted fashion destination for budget-conscious yet style-savvy consumers.

Disrupting the Market with Value & Quality

Unlike fast fashion brands that mass-produce designs, Beyoung focuses on making global fashion accessible—to create pieces that people feel confident after wearing. This shift in consumer behavior, accelerated by the post-COVID mindset, has worked in Beyoung’s favor, allowing it to position itself between high-end brands and local retailers.

Shivani also pointed out that while many brands claim to offer affordable fashion, their pricing is often out of reach for Tier 2, 3, and 4 city consumers. Beyoung, on the other hand, strategically fills this gap by providing the perfect balance of quality, style, and affordability.

Continue Exploring: The End of a Retail Era: Neville Noronha Checks Out, Anshul Asawa Checks In

What’s Next for Beyoung?

As competition increases in the fashion e-commerce space, Shivani remains confident in Beyoung’s unique approach. While other brands are still struggling to offer true customization and flexibility, Beyoung continues to innovate. The brand is focused on expanding its reach, increasing customer satisfaction, and further disrupting the fashion industry for the mass Indian market.

From a small-town startup to a multi-crore business, Beyoung’s journey is a testament to the power of understanding consumer needs and delivering real value. With its strong foundation and ambitious goals, the brand is set to redefine everyday fashion in India.

Advertisement

Sirona’s ₹150 Cr Redemption: Deep & Mohit Bajaj in Final Talks to Buy Back Brand from Debt-Ridden Good Glamm Group

0
Image of sirona
Sirona’s ₹150 Cr Redemption: Deep & Mohit Bajaj in Final Talks to Buy Back Brand from Debt-Ridden Good Glamm Group

Deep and Mohit Bajaj, the founders of Sirona, are close to reclaiming their feminine hygiene brand from the financially struggling Good Glamm Group, according to sources aware of the deal.

The buyback is expected to cost around ₹150 crore, with the majority of the funding coming from the founders’ personal capital. This amount also covers outstanding debts that Sirona accrued under Good Glamm’s ownership.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

“Good Glamm is in a tough spot financially, and they’re selling off assets to stay afloat. They pitched Sirona to multiple buyers, but the founders are now stepping in. While the deal isn’t signed yet, it’s moving in that direction,” said a source familiar with the matter.

Good Glamm Group had acquired Sirona in October 2024 for ₹450 crore. But since then, Sirona’s monthly sales have crashed to nearly one-eighth of its peak of ₹12 crore, leaving suppliers unpaid and the team uncertain about the company’s future due to stalled funding.

This news was first reported by The Arc Web.

Launched in 2014, Sirona is known for its innovative menstrual hygiene products, including herbal pain relief patches, biodegradable sanitary pads, menstrual cup kits, and the stand-and-pee device PeeBuddy.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

The sale of Sirona is just the latest in a string of troubles for Good Glamm. On January 29, key investors—including Accel, Prosus Ventures, and Bessemer Venture Partners—resigned from the company’s board as the firm struggled with a cash crunch, delayed salaries, and layoffs.

As of now, neither Good Glamm nor Sirona has responded to requests for comment.

Advertisement

Madhya Pradesh Shakes Up Liquor Laws: 47 Shops to Shut in Religious Cities, ₹450 Crore Revenue Loss Expected

0
Image of Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh Shakes Up Liquor Laws: 47 Shops to Shut in Religious Cities, ₹450 Crore Revenue Loss Expected

The Madhya Pradesh government has rolled out a fresh excise policy for the 2025-26 financial year, bringing some significant changes to liquor regulations in the state. Starting April 1, 2025, all liquor outlets in designated religious regions will be shut down.

A major highlight of the policy is the introduction of “Low Alcoholic Beverage Bars,” a first-of-its-kind move in the state. These bars will serve only beer, wine, and pre-mixed alcoholic drinks with an alcohol content capped at 10% v/v, while hard liquor like whiskey, rum, and vodka will not be allowed.

As part of the policy, liquor sales will be prohibited in 19 locations, including 17 religious towns. This will lead to the closure of 47 alcohol outlets in areas such as Ujjain, Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, Orchha, Maihar, Chitrakoot, Datia, Amarkantak, and Salkanpur. These shops, which sold both Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) and country liquor, will cease operations. However, individuals will still be permitted to bring and consume liquor from outside, as the state has not imposed a complete prohibition.

At present, Madhya Pradesh has around 460-470 establishments that sell both liquor and beer. With the addition of Low Alcoholic Beverage Bars, the total number of outlets is expected to rise significantly.

The decision to close liquor shops in religious areas is expected to result in a revenue shortfall of approximately ₹450 crore, but the government believes the policy will encourage more controlled alcohol consumption.

The new excise rules also include a 20% hike in liquor shop renewal fees for 2025-26. Meanwhile, the state’s Heritage Liquor and Wine Production Policy remains unchanged, meaning heritage liquor manufacturers will continue to enjoy VAT exemptions.

Continue Exploring: Lahori Beverages Nears ₹450 Crore Fundraise as Valuation Soars to ₹2,500 Crore – A New Challenger in India’s Booming Drinks Market

Madhya Pradesh is also doubling down on its Grape Processing Policy to support fruit-based alcohol production. This initiative will expand wine-making beyond just grapes and jamun to include other fruits and even honey sourced locally.

Additionally, the policy grants wine producers permission to operate retail stores at their production sites. Tourists will be able to visit wine-tasting facilities at these wineries, adding a new dimension to the state’s liquor industry.

From the next financial year, foreign liquor bottling units will be authorized to manufacture, store, import, export, and sell specialty liquors. Meanwhile, the state’s 3,600 liquor outlets are projected to generate approximately ₹15,200 crore in revenue this fiscal year.

Continue Exploring: “Kuch Nahi Hoga”—Anupam Mittal Challenges This Dangerous Mindset in Policy Bazaar’s New Ad

Advertisement