Delhi Liquor Booking App Approved in 2024 to Boost Transparency

Digital Rollout

The Delhi State Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation launched the Delhi Liquor Booking app to ensure transparency and stop brand pushing in retail sales after receiving approval from the previous government in 2024. Management cleared the app's development in December 2024, and a work order was issued on January 2, 2025. After completing trials, the application went live in November 2025.

Sales And Usage

During its first year in the 2025-26 financial year, the app recorded 3,629 transactions worth about ₹13 lakh of liquor. Sales increased in the current financial year with 10,730 transactions generating around ₹30 lakh. Because the original app only worked on Android, officials launched a QR-code-enabled micro-site on September 6 to give iOS users access and maintain platform neutrality.

Rules And Limits

Customers must register, check stock online, pay digitally, and confirm they are above the legal drinking age of 25 before booking. Orders must be picked up from the concerned store after verification, as home delivery is not allowed. Excise rules permit a single person to possess up to nine litres of whisky and 18 litres of beer, and there is no provision to return purchased liquor.

Political Row

According to Hindustan Times, the launch has triggered a political row with Aam Aadmi Party leader and former Delhi minister Saurabh Bharadwaj demanding its withdrawal and threatening protests if the BJP-led government does not roll it back within 24 hours. DSIIDC officials noted that the app also helps reduce crowds outside stores and manages law and order issues.

Context

Delhi operates over 700 retail liquor stores through four government corporations, but this online booking system is currently restricted to more than 200 vends run by DSIIDC. Government retail platforms often use digital tools to regulate sales and monitor stock availability in urban markets.