Andhra Pradesh is set to introduce a new bar policy for the years 2025-2028, allowing bars to operate in airports across the state, excluding Tirupati. This policy, detailed in GO MS Number 275, comes into effect on September 1, 2025, and will remain in effect until August 31, 2028. The aim of the new policy is to foster financially viable and transparent bar operations.
Under the new regulations, establishing a bar has become simpler. It is no longer mandatory to have an existing restaurant. However, bar operators must obtain a recommendation from the airport operator. Successful applicants must start their bar within 15 days. To ensure fairness, a minimum of four applications is required for each bar to facilitate a lottery.
In line with the policy, bars will not be permitted in religious tourism areas. Tirupati has special stipulations. Bars are prohibited in the airport, and strict regulations will be imposed across the city. The route from Tirupati railway station to Alipiri (including RTC bus stand, Leelamahal Circle, Nandi Circle, Vishnu Nivasam, and Srinivasam) and the Leelamahal-Nandi Circle-Alipiri-SVRR Hospital-SVIMS route will be strictly alcohol-free to uphold the city’s religious integrity.
The policy allocates 840 bar licenses. Additionally, 10% of these licenses are reserved for the Geeta Kulalu community, offering them equal opportunities. These reserved bars will also receive a 50% discount on their license fees. The license fees are graded based on population:
* Areas with a population below 50,000: ₹35 lakh
* Areas with a population between 50,001 and 5 lakh: ₹55 lakh
* Areas with a population exceeding 5 lakh: ₹75 lakh
The fees will see an annual increase of 10%. The policy also allows for installment payments to promote sustainable operations in all areas. Fees can be paid in six installments, with a bank guarantee for one installment. The application fee is ₹5 lakh, with a processing fee of ₹10,000.
All bar licenses will be distributed through a public lottery to guarantee a fair and transparent process. Each draw necessitates a minimum of four applicants to be included.