Punjab cabinet cleared the new excise policy on February 27. | (Photo Courtesy: ANI)
Chandigarh: The Punjab government approved a new excise policy on Thursday, February 27, aiming to generate Rs 11,200 crore in revenue for the next financial year.
Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema highlighted that Rs 10,200 crore had already been collected in 2024-25. To promote transparency, liquor vends will continue to be allotted through e-tendering, with 207 auction groups created — each valued at around Rs 40 crore, subject to a possible variation of up to 25%, as per a report by ETV Bharat.
What Are the Key Changes?
As per the reprot, the new excise policy includes several key changes aimed at improving the liquor trade framework. A 3% quota has been reserved specifically for country liquor.
In a significant relief for ex-servicemen, the annual fee for a wholesale liquor license has been reduced from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 2.5 lakh. The permissible storage limit for liquor on farms has also been increased from 12 bottles to 36 bottles, and license holders can now stock beverages like beer, vodka, and gin.
Additionally, the special license fee for beer shops has been drastically reduced from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 25,000 per outlet. The policy also grants approval for setting up a new bottling plant and raises the cow cess on liquor from Rs 1 per litre to Rs 1.5 per litre.
Revised Rules for Birth and Death Registration
The Punjab Cabinet has amended rules related to birth and death records. Under the new provisions, Deputy Commissioners will handle record corrections instead of magistrates. Doctors will also be required to mention the exact cause of death on death certificates.
Harsher Fines for Water Pollution
The Cabinet has also toughened penalties for water pollution violations by amending the Water Act. Offenders will now face fines ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 15 lakh, replacing the earlier provision of imprisonment for three months to a year. Jail terms have been removed under the revised rules.
