In India, the legal drinking age varies from state to state, as each state has its regulations. Knowing the legal drinking age is essential for individuals to plan their alcohol consumption responsibly. While some states have a specific age limit, others have completely prohibited the sale and consumption of alcohol. Let’s explore the legal drinking age in different states of India and discuss the importance of understanding these laws!
Legal Age Of Drinking In India: Dry States, Age, And Significance
Dry States In India
To begin with, know that the legal age of drinking in India is not the same across the country. Different states in India have their legal drinking age that is in the range of 18 to 25 years. Each state enjoys the liberty to mandate its own rules and guidelines about alcohol consumption due to India’s federal political system. While most states allow the sale and consumption of alcohol, some states have completely banned alcohol!
The states of Gujarat, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Bihar have completely banned the manufacture, storage, sale, and consumption of alcohol, making them the ‘dry states’ of India. Only the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) in Gujarat allows moderated sale and consumption of alcohol for its permanent employees and authorized visitors.
Age-Wise Information About Legal Age Of Drinking In India
18 Years
- Goa
- Sikkim
- Puducherry
- Himachal Pradesh
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Rajasthan
21 Years
- Andhra Pradesh
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Assam
- Chhattisgarh
- Dadra and Nagar Haveli
- Daman and Diu
- Haryana
- Jammu and Kashmir
- Jharkhand
- Karnataka
- Ladakh
- Maharashtra (for beer)
- Madhya Pradesh
- Odisha
- Tamil Nadu
- Telangana
- Tripura
- Uttar Pradesh
- Uttarakhand
- West Bengal
- Delhi
25 Years
- Chandigarh
- Meghalaya
- Maharashtra (hard liquor)
- Punjab
Dry States
- Gujarat
- Bihar
- Nagaland
- Mizoram
Ambiguities In Legal Drinking Age
Karnataka: Alcohol laws in Karnataka can be a little confusing. While some laws state that the legal drinking age is 21, many bars and restaurants serve alcohol to everyone above the age of 18.
Maharashtra: The state of Maharashtra requires people to be 18 and above to consume beer. However, to consume hard liquor, one must be 25 years of age and above.
Goa: With a legal drinking age of 18, Goa is among the most liberal states in this regard. The relaxed drinking age has significantly contributed to Goa’s popularity as a destination for vibrant nightlife and quality alcohol experiences.
Also Read: From Confused to Cultured: Demystifying Wine in a Day
Why A Legal Age Of Drinking Is Important
Every state in India must have a legal drinking age, no matter what the number is. Setting a minimum drinking age helps reduce underage drinking and the risks associated with it. This ensures that public health and safety is not compromised. Moreover, it also encourages alcohol responsible consumption practices and makes individuals accountable. Law enforcement agencies, with the help of laws and legal regulations, can regulate alcohol-related activities and take strict actions against individuals and establishments that do not comply with the same.
Also Read: Corporate Trend Alert: Alcohol Free Networking Is The New ‘Cool’ In Office Culture
Summing Up
India’s drinking age laws differ from state to state, however, the common goal stays the same – to encourage safe and responsible alcohol consumption. Some states do not allow any sale and consumption altogether. If you’re traveling to these states, make sure to follow all necessary laws and guidelines. Happy (and responsible) drinking! Cheers!
