Andhra Pradesh government decides to take over retail liquor business

The government said the decision to take over the retail liquor business was taken after studying the excise policies of various states in India

In a move, seen as a first step towards a phased liquor ban in the state, the Andhra Pradesh cabinet on Thursday decided that the government would run liquor shops in the state. 

The AP Beverages Corporation, which is the sole wholesaler of liquor business in the state, will also operate the retail stores once the necessary amendments to the existing law are made. The state cabinet, chaired by chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, has approved a draft bill that seeks to amend the 1993 state excise Act.

The government said the decision to take over the retail liquor business