In a major relaxation under Gujarat’s stringent prohibition policy, the state government is set to introduce a mobile application to make liquor permits easily accessible for locals and tourists alike.
The app—currently in its final trial phase—is expected to be launched within a fortnight, allowing users to apply for and receive liquor permits directly through their smartphones.
Government sources have been quoted saying that the initiative aims to simplify the cumbersome permit process that visitors, especially domestic and foreign tourists, currently face.
At present, applicants are required to visit designated liquor shops at star hotels or resorts, fill out forms, and submit several documents in person. The new mobile-based system will eliminate this inconvenience.
Under the new system, applicants can upload documents such as their Aadhaar card and make payments online. Once verified, they will receive a digital permit, which can be used to purchase liquor from approved hotels and resorts across the state. The app will be available in English, Hindi, and Gujarati.
Officials said the service will also be rolled out in GIFT City, where liquor consumption is already permitted for those working or residing within its premises. After successful trials, the facility is expected to go live in about two weeks.
Interestingly, the Gujarat government’s approach is being seen as a move to promote tourism while subtly relaxing prohibition norms. Similar “wine and dine” facilities are reportedly being planned at key destinations such as the Statue of Unity, Surat Diamond Bourse, and Rann Utsav in Kutch, following the GIFT City model.
However, the development has also sparked debate, with critics arguing that the government is indirectly easing liquor restrictions under the pretext of encouraging tourism.
Meanwhile, official data reveals a steady stream of permit issuance across major cities. In Ahmedabad alone, 1,023 permits were issued in 2023, compared to 322 in 2024 so far. Surat topped the list with 1,143 permits in 2023 and 803 this year, followed by Vadodara, Rajkot, Bhavnagar, and Gandhinagar.
The state government maintains that the app is purely a convenience measure intended to help law-abiding visitors and residents obtain legal permits without unnecessary paperwork.
Also Read: Gujarat District Declares Dry Day; But Gujarat As Such Has Prohibition! https://www.vibesofindia.com/gujarat-district-declares-dry-day-but-gujarat-as-such-has-prohibition/
