The peak of the celebrations was on December 31, when alcohol sales in the district totaled ₹2.16 crore in a single day. On January 1, 2026, the first day of the New Year, an additional ₹1.90 crore worth of liquor was sold. Combined, the two-day total reached ₹4,66,67,000, marking one of the highest liquor sales records in recent years for Raigarh.
Shops across the district reported heavy footfall from morning until late at night on December 31, with customers queuing for both domestic and imported brands. The trend continued on New Year’s Day, demonstrating strong demand and the availability of adequate stock across outlets.
Among the 37 operational liquor stores in the district, the highest sales were recorded at shops near Signal Chowk and in the Jutmil area. The Mutton Shop location, situated behind a premium liquor store, alone recorded sales of over ₹13 lakh on December 31. Similarly, another premium outlet in the area matched this figure, while the Signal Chowk store sold around ₹10 lakh worth of liquor.
The district operates 37 licensed liquor outlets, including 2 premium shops, 15 composite stores, 9 local liquor outlets, and 11 English liquor stores. According to Ragini Nayak, in-charge Assistant District Officer (ADO), the substantial two-day sales have contributed significantly to government revenue, highlighting the economic impact of festive liquor consumption in the region.
The surge in liquor sales also underscores the cultural and social enthusiasm of Raigarh residents during New Year festivities. Retailers and authorities have emphasized the importance of maintaining regulated sales and adherence to licensing norms to ensure orderly distribution.
The district administration is expected to continue monitoring consumption patterns, especially during major festivals, as liquor sales remain a vital source of state revenue while reflecting local consumer behavior.
