Kerala State Beverages Corporation

Kerala Beverages Corporation

Kerala State Beverages Corporation (BEVCO) is a public sector company owned by the Government of Kerala, established in 1984 to regulate and control the manufacture, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages in the state of Kerala, India. It operates under the Ministry of Excise, Government of Kerala, and is the sole distributor of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) in the state. BEVCO plays a significant role in the state's economy, contributing a substantial amount to the state's revenue through the sale of alcohol.

History

The Kerala State Beverages Corporation was established following the policy of alcohol regulation rather than prohibition. This policy shift aimed to curb the illegal sale and smuggling of liquor, ensure the quality of alcoholic beverages, and generate revenue for the state. Since its inception, BEVCO has grown significantly and now operates a wide network of retail outlets across Kerala, making it one of the largest retail chains in the state.

Operations

BEVCO's operations include the procurement of various brands of liquor from manufacturers and suppliers, warehousing, and distribution to its retail outlets. The corporation has implemented a transparent and efficient distribution system to manage the supply chain effectively. It also focuses on promoting responsible drinking and ensuring that liquor sales are conducted within the legal framework set by the state government.

Retail Outlets

BEVCO operates numerous retail outlets, commonly referred to as "BEVCO outlets" or "liquor shops," across Kerala. These outlets are the primary points of sale for a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including whiskey, rum, brandy, vodka, and beer. The corporation has also introduced self-service outlets to enhance customer experience and reduce waiting times.

Online Sales and Home Delivery

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to promote social distancing, BEVCO launched an online platform for the sale of liquor. This initiative allowed customers to book their purchases online and schedule a pickup from the designated outlets, thereby minimizing crowding at shops. The corporation is also exploring options for home delivery of liquor to further ease the purchase process for consumers.

Social Responsibility

BEVCO is committed to promoting responsible drinking and has undertaken various initiatives to educate the public about the dangers of alcohol abuse. The corporation contributes a portion of its revenue to the state's welfare schemes, including those aimed at rehabilitation and awareness programs related to alcoholism.

Controversies

Like any organization dealing with alcoholic beverages, BEVCO has faced its share of controversies, including allegations of corruption, issues related to the allocation of outlets, and concerns about the social impact of liquor sales. The corporation, in coordination with the state government, has taken steps to address these issues and improve its operations and image.

Impact on Kerala's Economy

The Kerala State Beverages Corporation is a major contributor to the state's economy. The revenue generated from the sale of liquor is a significant source of income for the state, funding various development projects and welfare schemes. However, the reliance on revenue from liquor sales also raises questions about the state's economic sustainability and the social implications of alcohol consumption.

See Also

• Alcohol laws of India
• Economy of Kerala
• Public sector undertakings in Kerala

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