AP becomes first in India to implement comprehensive technology driven measures to check liquor authenticity

Andhra Pradesh government has rolled out a comprehensive technology-driven system to curb the sale of spurious liquor and ensure product authenticity.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed that liquor sales be permitted only after QR code scanning through the Suraksha App developed by the State Excise Department.

During a review meeting at the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS), the Chief Minister said the initiative will bring full transparency and accountability to the liquor trade. He stressed that consumers should verify every bottle by scanning its QR code before purchase.

Naidu also warned against illegal belt shops and instructed officials to take strict action under the Preventive Detention Act against those involved in unauthorized sales. “If required, laws will be amended to curb such activities,” he said, adding that no one would be spared irrespective of political links.

The Chief Minister directed officials to install digital display boards in liquor outlets showing details like price, manufacturing data, and authenticity as soon as a bottle is scanned. He also ordered intensified inspections across the state to eliminate fake liquor completely.

Officials informed the Chief Minister that since the launch of the Suraksha App on October 13, over 27,000 users have downloaded it and more than 53,000 bottles have been scanned. No counterfeit bottle has been found so far through the system.

The Chief Minister instructed that the barcode system be extended to beer bottles and approved the use of random and scientific testing methods to further verify liquor quality. He also directed the establishment of a control room to handle consumer complaints and feedback.