The Telangana government has witnessed unprecedented interest from liquor manufacturing companies for the upcoming excise year 2025–26, receiving 694 applications for new liquor brands from 92 companies as of April 2—the final date for submissions. Officials stated this is the highest number of brand applications received in recent years, signaling the state's growing appeal in the alcohol business.
Of the total applications, 331 came from domestic manufacturers, while 273 belonged to international players. Notably, 47 new entrants have sought approval for 386 alcohol-based products, while 45 existing suppliers applied for 218 new brands. The initial deadline of March 15 was extended after multiple firms requested more time.
This surge in interest reflects Telangana’s position as one of the top revenue-generating states from liquor excise, with a staggering Rs 34,600 crore earned in 2024–25, up from Rs 33,535 crore in 2023–24. The increase is partly attributed to the previous government's move to advance the liquor license issuance process before the state elections, fetching an additional Rs 1,264.50 crore via auctions.
Since 2015, Telangana’s liquor excise revenues have consistently risen, peaking notably in 2019–20 at Rs 35,145 crore even before the pandemic. Despite a temporary dip during the COVID-affected year 2020–21, the state bounced back strongly, maintaining an upward trend. The year-wise breakdown shows a steady climb—from Rs 12,706 crore in 2015–16 to Rs 34,600 crore in 2024–25.
With such promising figures and growing market confidence, Telangana has positioned itself as a liquor revenue surplus state, and the overwhelming response from alcohol brands only underscores the sector’s robust potential for the years ahead.
