Dehradun: The state government of Uttarakhand has recently approved the State’s Excise Policy 2023-24 during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The decision was made to address the issue of liquor smuggling from Uttar Pradesh to Uttarakhand, and as a result, the price of country and foreign liquor in the state will become cheaper. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the liquor industry in Uttarakhand, and it will be implemented from April 1.
Reduction in Liquor Prices
Under the new excise policy, liquor will be kept only Rs 20 costlier than in Uttar Pradesh. This move will lead to a significant reduction in the price of liquor in the state, with prices expected to go down by Rs 100 to Rs 300 per bottle. This step is aimed at boosting the state’s economy and making liquor affordable for the people of Uttarakhand.
Cess for Welfare Departments
To support women welfare, youth welfare, sports department, and the protection of cow progeny, a cess of three rupees per bottle will be charged. Each department will receive one rupee on the sale of liquor per bottle. With an estimated four to five lakh bottles of liquor sold daily, each department is expected to receive one to one and a half crore revenue every month. This move is expected to provide essential support to these departments, and promote their overall growth and development.
Open New Shops and Reduce MGD
The cabinet has given permission to open new liquor shops to meet the increasing demand for liquor. Additionally, the Minimum Guarantee Duty (MGD) has been reduced under the policy to make liquor more affordable for the people of Uttarakhand. The government has set a target of four thousand crore rupees for the financial year 2023-24 for the Excise Department, with this year’s target being Rs 3600 crore. This step is expected to give a significant boost to the state’s economy and generate revenue for the government.
The State’s Excise Policy 2023-24 is a significant step taken by the Uttarakhand government to promote the growth and development of the state’s liquor industry. This move is expected to make liquor affordable for the people of Uttarakhand and generate revenue for the state government. With the implementation of the new excise policy from April 1, Uttarakhand is set to witness a positive change in the liquor industry, which will benefit all stakeholders involved.
