In a groundbreaking development, the BJP-led government in Gujarat has taken a significant step by lifting the longstanding ban on liquor within the confines of the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), marking a departure from the state's overarching prohibition policy. Gujarat, renowned as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, has steadfastly upheld a ban on the production, storage, sale, and consumption of alcoholic beverages since its inception. The unprecedented decision to exempt GIFT City from this prohibition is poised to redefine the state's trajectory, strategically fostering a conducive global business environment.

GIFT City has evolved into a pivotal global nexus for finance and technology, attracting substantial economic activities and international investments. This move is strategically geared towards elevating the infrastructure and amenities for global investors, technical experts, as well as national and international corporations operating within the precincts of GIFT City.

According to a statement from the state prohibition department, the revised regulations will permit "wine and dine" facilities within the GIFT City area, as reported by news agency PTI. Both existing and forthcoming hotels, restaurants, and clubs will be eligible for permits to offer wine and dine services, albeit without the authorization to sell liquor bottles to patrons. This nuanced relaxation is tailored to meet the needs of the workforce within GIFT City and their official guests.

The statement further elucidated that liquor access permits will be granted to owners and employees of companies within GIFT City, while temporary permits will be extended to their visitors, allowing them to partake in alcohol consumption within designated hotels and restaurants. Oversight of the import, storage, and sale of liquor within GIFT City will be the purview of the state prohibition and excise department.

However, the decision has not been without its share of dissent, particularly from the Congress party. Rajya Sabha MP and Gujarat Congress President Shaktisinh Gohil expressed opposition, stating, "In Gandhinagar's GIFT City, the alcohol ban is being lifted, and it's been decided to remove the prohibition. Now people will consume it, and it will impact Gujarat in a negative way. No idea what kind of profit the Gujarat government is seeing in this."

This move echoes a previous request from Surat's DREAM City, home to the recently inaugurated diamond bourse, seeking a similar exemption from the state's prohibition. The sentiment aligns with the stance advocated by former Chief Minister Shankarsinh Vaghela, who had previously called for the lifting of the liquor ban in the state.

While visitors to Gujarat currently have the option to purchase liquor from authorized outlets through temporary permits, this specific exemption within GIFT City is viewed as a tailored response to accommodate the unique demands of the rapidly growing international hub.