The Gujarat government on Friday allowed consumption of alcohol at hotels, restaurants and clubs offering “wine and dine” service in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) in Gandhinagar district. All individuals employed in dry state Gujarat’s GIFT City and authorised visitors will be allowed to consume alcoholic beverages within the designated area.
However, as per the latest notification, hotels and restaurants will not be allowed to sell liquor bottles.
“Liquor Access Permit will be given to all the employees/owners working in the entire GIFT City. Apart from this, a provision has been made to allow authorised visitors of each company to consume liquor in such hotels/restaurants/clubs having temporary permits in the presence of permanent employees of that company,” the notification read.
“Hotels/Restaurants/Clubs located or coming to GIFT City will be able to obtain wine and dine facility i.e. FL3 license,” it added.
According to an official statement, the decision was taken in an attempt to provide a “global business ecosystem” at GIFT City.
Currently, those visiting Gujarat can buy alcohol from authorised outlets by obtaining a temporary liquor permit.
Reacting to the announcement, NSE CEO Ashish Chauhan said GIFT City “got a leg up” with this development.
“Interesting development – Gift city in Gandhinagar Gujarat – International Finance Services Center (IFSC) – has got a leg up today. Government of Gujarat has given exemption from alcohol prohibition to certain entities including visitors and residents by issuing a notification,” Chauhan said on X (formerly known as Twitter).
Gujarat’s GIFT City, functioning as a tax-neutral financial center, seeks to position itself as a competitive alternative to hubs such as Singapore.
GIFT City is considered to be India’s first greenfield smart city and International Financial Services Center (IFSC). The area accommodates offices of several multinational companies, including Oracle, Cyril, Bank of America, Citi Bank and others.