In a significant move, the NDA government in Andhra Pradesh has initiated steps to overturn the controversial liquor policy implemented by former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy. Under Jagan's regime, all liquor shops were government-run, leading to widespread complaints about poor-quality liquor, inflated prices, and a cash-only payment policy.

Starting from October 1 to 9, tenders will be invited for private liquor shops, with a fee of Rs 2 lakh for each application. The allocation of these licenses will be determined through a lottery system on October 11. From October 12, a total of 3,396 private liquor shops will be opened across the state.

The old government-operated liquor shops will be nullified, and all remaining stock from Jagan's tenure must be returned to the AP excise department. Contaminated liquor will be removed from circulation, paving the way for quality products to enter the market.

Additionally, the new licensing fees have seen a substantial increase, with costs ranging from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 85 lakh, depending on the geographic and demographic factors of each area.