Dehradun: The Uttarakhand government has introduced the new Excise Policy for 2025, which includes several significant changes aimed at regulating the sale of liquor in the state.
The policy mandates the closure of liquor shops near religious places, with the goal of respecting the sanctity of these areas. Additionally, licenses for liquor shops will be canceled if they charge prices higher than the Maximum Retail Price (MRP). The government has set a revenue target of Rs 5060 crore for the financial year 2025-26.
Close all the liquor shops near religious places
In the new Excise Policy 2025, the government has emphasized the importance of religious places by deciding to close liquor licenses near them. This move is aimed at maintaining public sensitivity and exercising greater control over the sale of liquor. The policy has also abolished sub-shops and the metro liquor sales system to streamline the process.
License of shop will be cancelled if charges more than the MRP
The new excise policy includes provisions to protect the interests of consumers. If a liquor shop charges more than the MRP, its license will be canceled. The MRP will also be applicable to departmental stores, ensuring that consumers are not overcharged for their purchases.
Government has set a revenue target of Rs 5060 crore
The excise revenue in Uttarakhand has seen significant growth over the past two years. The government has set a revenue target of Rs 5060 crore for the financial year 2025-26. In the financial year 2023-24, the state earned Rs 4038.69 crore against a target of Rs 4000 crore. For the financial year 2024-25, the state has already received around Rs 4000 crore against a target of Rs 4439 crore.
Wineries in hills will be exempt from excise duty for the next 15 years
To promote local businesses and employment, the policy grants priority to local residents for wholesale liquor licensing. This move is expected to boost economic opportunities within the state. Additionally, wineries in hilly areas will be exempt from excise duty for the next 15 years, encouraging the growth of wineries using locally produced fruits. This exemption will benefit farmers and those working in the horticulture sector economically.
Distilleries are being encouraged to use local agricultural products
The policy aims to encourage investment in the liquor industry by reducing export duties. Special facilities will be provided to malt and spirit industries in hilly areas. Distilleries (distilling units) are being encouraged to use local agricultural products, which will increase farmers’ income and provide them with new markets. The policy ensures transparency in the allocation of liquor shops through processes like renewal, lottery, and maximum offer.
Special campaigns to raise public awareness
The Excise Policy 2025 includes special campaigns to raise public awareness about the harmful effects of alcohol. The policy has been designed to focus on economic strengthening, transparency, and social responsibility in the state. The allocation process for liquor shops will be transparent and fair, ensuring that shops are allocated through a lottery system and other clear procedures.
