Responsible Drinking Guide for India

Know the Legal Drinking Age Where You Are

Alcohol is regulated by state governments, so the minimum legal drinking age depends on where you are. It ranges from 18 to 25 across India, and some states restrict or ban alcohol sales altogether. Rules on dry days, shop timings and how much you may carry also differ by state, so check your state's current excise rules before you buy or travel with alcohol.

Never Drink and Drive

Driving with more than 30 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood is an offence under Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and can lead to a fine, imprisonment or both. Alcohol slows your reactions long before you feel drunk.

• Plan your ride home before your first drink: a cab, a sober driver or public transport.
• Do not accept a lift from someone who has been drinking.
• If in doubt, do not drive. Leave the car and collect it the next day.

Know Your Limits

• Eat before and while you drink. Food slows how quickly alcohol is absorbed.
• Alternate every alcoholic drink with a glass of water.
• Pace yourself. Shots in quick succession are harder on you than a slow drink.
• Know your measure. A peg can be 30 ml or 60 ml depending on the venue.
• Check the strength (ABV) on the label. A strong beer or a 42.8% whisky is not the same as a light beer.
• Do not mix alcohol with energy drinks, sleeping pills or other medicines.
• Never feel pressured to keep up with anyone else.

Who Should Avoid Alcohol

People under the legal drinking age, anyone who is pregnant or trying to conceive, people taking medication that interacts with alcohol, and anyone a doctor has advised to avoid it. If you are not sure, ask your doctor.

When Drinking Becomes a Problem

Some signs it may be time to talk to someone:

• You drink more, or for longer, than you meant to.
• You feel you need a drink to relax or get through the day.
• You have tried to cut down and could not.
• Drinking is causing problems at home, at work or with money.

If this sounds familiar, you are not alone and help is available. Tele-MANAS, the Government of India's free, round-the-clock mental health helpline, is on 14416 (or 1800-891-4416). Talking to a doctor is also a good first step.

Our Approach

We publish prices and guides to help you make an informed choice, not a more frequent one. Read more in our editorial policy or browse the liquor glossary.

This page is general information, not medical or legal advice. Laws change, so check official sources for your state.