3,300 Licensed Bars in Pune Advocate for Single-Window Licensing System
Reported by Sumit Singh
Pune, 26th June 2024: In the backdrop of a crackdown on pubs and bars after liquor was served to underage persons and youths were seen consuming drugs, Ajinkya Shinde, vice president of the United Hospitality Association (UHA), has called for a streamlined licensing procedure for Pune’s 3,300 licensed FL3 bars. These establishments, which include pubs, lounges, family restaurant bars, fine dining venues, quarter system bars, and permit rooms, face practical challenges that should not lead to their classification as illegal.
Shinde highlighted that guests often utilize empty spaces for dancing, especially on weekends, which has become a significant trend. “This evolution stems from guest preferences and enterprises adapting to meet those needs. This trend has contributed significantly to our business growth,” he stated.
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To address these challenges, Shinde urged the government to implement a single-window system for licensing. “We encourage and request the government to streamline the licensing procedure through a single-window system. This will aid enterprises in complying with the law and also help regulate and generate substantial additional revenue for the government,” he explained.
Shinde emphasized the importance of collaboration between the authorities and the hospitality industry. “We urge the authorities to engage with us confidently and collaboratively to develop solutions for the betterment of the city. Our goal is to achieve sustainable growth for our industry without disrupting the rich cultural heritage of our city.”
The United Hospitality Association believes that a streamlined licensing process will not only benefit the industry but also contribute to the overall development and regulation of Pune’s hospitality sector.
