Gujarat government allows liquor consumption in GIFT City for employees and visitors

Digital Desk: In a significant development, the Gujarat government has granted permission for the consumption of alcohol at hotels, restaurants, and clubs offering "wine and dine" services within Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) in Gandhinagar district. 

This move is aimed at fostering a global business ecosystem within GIFT City, which operates as India's first greenfield smart city and International Financial Services Center (IFSC).

The latest notification specifies that employees and authorized visitors in the dry state's GIFT City are now allowed to consume alcoholic beverages within designated areas. 

Notably, hotels and restaurants, while permitted to serve alcohol, are prohibited from selling liquor bottles. The Liquor Access Permit will be extended to all employees and owners within GIFT City, with provisions for authorized visitors to consume liquor in establishments with temporary permits, provided they are in the company of permanent employees.

Despite concerns about the JN.1 variant, officials emphasize that reported cases within GIFT City have been mild, with no observed clustering or complications. The decision to allow alcohol consumption aligns with the government's vision of creating a competitive alternative to international financial hubs, positioning GIFT City as a tax-neutral financial center.

The exemption from alcohol prohibition has garnered positive reactions, with NSE CEO Ashish Chauhan noting that GIFT City has gained a strategic advantage. He expressed his sentiments on social media, stating that this move provides a significant boost to GIFT City's status as an International Finance Services Center (IFSC).

GIFT City, home to offices of multinational companies like Oracle, Cyril, Bank of America, and Citi Bank, aims to attract global businesses by offering a conducive environment. The decision to allow alcohol consumption within the city aligns with the broader goal of enhancing its appeal to residents, visitors, and businesses, contributing to the realization of a vibrant and globally competitive business ecosystem.