Women Grab Over One-Third of Liquor Shop Licenses in Lucknow

Lucknow: In a surprising twist, Lucknow has witnessed a significant rise in the involvement of women entrepreneurs in the liquor trade. Out of 1,046 liquor shops in the city, a notable 370 have been allocated to women for the upcoming fiscal year starting April 1. This marks a notable shift in an industry traditionally dominated by men.

Officials report a 7% increase in overall female participation compared to the previous year, indicating a growing trend of women entering the alcohol business. Despite the lack of specific incentives, women are increasingly showing interest in this sector, challenging previous hesitations.

Rakesh Singh, the District Excise Officer of Lucknow, noted that nearly 35% of licenses issued for the next financial year have been obtained by women entrepreneurs. This increase reflects a steady rise in female applicants over the past few years.

Women entrepreneurs are particularly interested in IMFL (Indian Made Foreign Liquor) shops, which deal in various spirits including whisky, vodka, rum, gin, and wine, followed by beer shops.

As for the remaining liquor shops in Lucknow, only five country-made liquor shops and two model shops are left unallocated out of the total 1,046. These remaining shops will soon be put up for auction, according to Singh.