Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Jan 5: Amid the celebrations of New Year 2026, liquor sales in Karnataka touched a record high, registering the highest figures in the last three years. The excise department recorded revenue of Rs 745.84 crore, with Indian Made Liquor (IML) and beer sales reaching unprecedented levels. Sales far exceeded expectations, significantly boosting the department’s revenue.
Massive sales were recorded over three days from December 29 to 31. During this period, 9.84 lac boxes of IML and 6.64 lac boxes of beer were sold across the state. Compared to previous years, the surge in sales was substantial.
In 2023, IML sales stood at 9.44 lac boxes and beer at 6.16 lac boxes, generating revenue of Rs 499.55 crore. In 2024, IML sales dropped to 8.25 lac boxes and beer to 5.03 lac boxes, with revenue amounting to Rs 540.86 crore. In 2025, IML sales rose sharply to 9.84 lac boxes and beer to 6.64 lac boxes, resulting in record revenue of Rs 745.84 crore.
Compared to 2024, IML sales increased by 1.59 lac boxes this year, while beer sales rose by 1.61 lac boxes. Overall revenue saw an increase of Rs 205 crore.
Among the three days, December 30 recorded the highest liquor sales. On December 29, liquor worth Rs 122.32 crore was sold, while sales peaked at Rs 261.09 crore on December 30. On December 31, sales stood at Rs 204.10 crore.
Overall, liquor worth Rs 587.51 crore was sold between December 29 and 31 due to New Year celebrations. December 30 alone accounted for the highest revenue of Rs 261.09 crore, followed by Rs 204.10 crore on December 31 and Rs 122.32 crore on December 29.
Large numbers of people purchased liquor to celebrate New Year parties with friends. December 30 witnessed the highest rush at liquor outlets, with people stocking up for celebrations. Liquor stores across the state saw heavy crowds, with strong demand for beer and hot drinks such as whisky and brandy.
Liquor sales generated significant revenue for the state government, providing a boost to the state’s economy. However, concerns have been raised that alcohol consumption could lead to an increase in road accidents and other related issues.
In view of the celebrations, police intensified drunk driving checks across the state. While the surge in liquor sales reflects festive cheer, officials have appealed to the public to consume alcohol responsibly and celebrate safely.