A dry day in India is a day on which the sale and/or serving of alcohol is prohibited. On dry days, liquor shops are closed and hotels, bars, and restaurants may not serve alcohol, unless there is a notification from the state excise department permitting them to do so. The purpose of dry days is to promote public order and safety, and to reduce alcohol-related problems. Dry days are also observed on religious holidays to respect the religious beliefs of the community.
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LIST OF DRY DAYS IN 2023
- October 2, Monday: Gandhi Jayanti
- October 8, Sunday: Prohibition Week (Maharashtra)
- October 24, Tuesday: Dussehra
- October 28, Saturday: Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti
- October 30, Monday: Harijan Day (Rajasthan)
DRY DAYS IN OCTOBER 2023: STATE-WISE REGULATIONS AND DATES
In India, the sale of liquor faces restrictions on specific days, either nationally or regionally, often tied to local occasions and elections. Furthermore, certain states, such as Bihar, Gujarat, Lakshadweep, Mizoram, and Nagaland, have a complete alcohol ban in place. Additionally, selected districts in Manipur observe partial restrictions.
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What is a Dry Day in India?
A dry day in India is a day on which the sale and/or serving of alcohol is prohibited. There are three types of dry days in India:
NATIONAL DRY DAYS
These are dry days that are observed throughout India on the following occasions:
- Republic Day (January 26)
- Independence Day (August 15)
- Gandhi Jayanti (October 2)
OTHER DRY DAYS
These are dry days that are observed in addition to the national dry days. They may vary from state to state, but they typically include religious holidays and election days.
STATE-LEVEL DRY DAYS
These are dry days that are observed in specific states on specific occasions. For example, some states may observe a dry day on the day of a state election.
ON DRY DAYS
Liquor shops are closed.
Hotels, bars, and restaurants may not serve alcohol, unless there is a notification from the state excise department permitting them to do so.
LEGAL DRINKING AGE IN INDIA
The legal drinking age in India varies from state to state. In most states, the legal drinking age is 21. However, in some states, such as Goa and Pondicherry, the legal drinking age is 18.
ALCOHOL SALE BANNED STATES
The sale of alcohol is banned in the following states in India:
- Bihar
- Gujarat
- Lakshadweep
- Manipur
- Mizoram
DRINKING & DRIVING OFFENCE
Drunk driving is a serious offence in India. If you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol, you could face a fine of up to Rs. 10,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 2 years. Do not risk your life and the lives of others by driving under the influence of alcohol.
TIPS TO AVOID DRINKING AND DRIVING
- Plan ahead for transportation if you know you will be drinking.
- Designate a sober driver before you start drinking.
- Do not drink alcohol if you are taking any medication.
- If you see someone who is drinking and driving, try to stop them or call the police.
