Chandigarh: India sold over 40 crore cases of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) in 2024-25, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing alcohol markets.
While Chandigarh ranked 22nd in total IMFL sales nationally, a population-adjusted analysis paints a dramatically different picture. With a population of around 12.5 lakh, the Union Territory has emerged as one of the highest per capita alcohol-consuming regions in the country, surpassing even traditionally high-consumption southern states.
The findings are based on data shared by the Chandigarh Administration and compiled by the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC). The figures highlight a compact, affluent urban market marked by high spending capacity, a liberal retail environment and strict regulatory enforcement.
Chandigarh’s excise policy rests on three pillars — transparency, accountability and rigorous enforcement. UT Deputy Commissioner-cum-Excise and Taxation Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav said digital monitoring of sales and supply movement has strengthened the administration’s ability to detect violations swiftly.
He added that enforcement measures have been intensified to prevent illegal trade from undermining legitimate revenue and public safety.
