Kolkata: The West Bengal government’s decision to start wholesale distribution of Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL) has rattled the whole liquor supply chain in the state. Though the government hasn’t said it would establish a monopoly, distributors fear their yearly licences may not be renewed after the proposed West Bengal State Beverages Corp. Ltd is launched. Around 17,000 people directly and indirectly employed in the sector face the risk of losing jobs, according to West Bengal Liquor Manufacturers Wholesalers and Bonders Association . A key excise department official said West Bengal is currently studying the model of IMFL distribution by state-owned corporations in 11 states. Members of the West Bengal Liquor Manufacturers Wholesalers and Bonders Association claim there are at least 102 players in the business, and the model is an evolved one.

Source: Mint February 19, 2017 18:42 UTC