There’s nothing quite like enjoying a chilled beer in Delhi’s sweltering summer. But these days, Delhiites are struggling to find their favourite beer brands. Popular names like Tuborg, Kingfisher, Bira, Carlsberg, and Budweiser have suddenly vanished from liquor shops across the capital. So, why are these beer brands missing from the shelves?
What’s Causing the Beer Shortage?
A survey of liquor shops across East, West, South, and Central Delhi reveals that most popular beer brands are either out of stock or available in very limited quantities — selling out within hours.
Shop owners say that liquor in Delhi is now sold exclusively through government-run shops. The selection of available brands is not decided by shopkeepers, but by government agencies. These agencies are currently supplying only limited stock.
Also Read: Bira Beer Alcohol Percentage of All Bira Flavours
Beer Lovers Turning to NCR
Those who don’t want to compromise on their favourite beer are now heading to places in the National Capital Region (NCR) like Noida, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, and Gurugram. Many are seen hopping from one shop to another in search of their preferred brew.
Why Are Bhutanese and Nepalese Beers More Visible?
Beer imported from Bhutan and Nepal is now readily available in Delhi. These lesser-known brands come at slightly higher prices, but there’s a reason behind their presence — they attract either no import duty or a very low one. Plus, shops make more profit on these compared to Indian brands.
As a result, foreign beer brands are more visible in stores, while popular Indian options like Bira, Kingfisher, Haywards, and Tuborg are missing.
Will Your Favourite Beer Be Back Soon?
Some shop owners revealed that due to delays in liquor license renewals over the past few weeks, they couldn’t place new orders. However, the government has now renewed the old licenses and new stock orders are being placed. The Excise Department claims that all beer brands are available in their stock, and supplies will resume once orders are placed.
The real reasons behind Delhi’s beer shortage include delays in government supply processes, license renewals, and the preference given to foreign brands. Officials assure that the situation will improve soon, and popular brands will return to store shelves. Until then, Delhiites will either have to wait or travel to the NCR for their favourite beer.